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A Symphony of Classics: Unveiling the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's 2025-2026 Season

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is poised to captivate audiences once again with a stunning series of events for its 2025-2026 season. From the dramatic intensity of Verdi’s Requiem conducted by the legendary Riccardo Muti to the festive cheer of 'Merry, Merry Chicago!', the CSO promises an unforgettable musical journey. Adding to the allure is a live orchestral accompaniment to the cinematic masterpiece '2001: A Space Odyssey' and a night dedicated to the grandeur of Italian opera. Join the CSO for a season that celebrates the timeless power of classical music and its profound emotional resonance.

May 7, 2025

1. Muti Conducts Verdi Requiem

Verdi’s Requiem Mass, in its fervent quest for eternal rest, stands as a powerful demonstration of the composer’s ability to harness the human voice. Hailed by NPR as “simply magnificent” for their two-time Grammy Award-winning CSO Resound recording of this work, Riccardo Muti and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus are joined by a thrilling quartet of international singers to once again deliver a masterful blend of passion and precisio

19 - 24 Jun, 2025

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Chicago, IL · Symphony Center

2. Merry, Merry Chicago!

There’s nothing like hearing holiday music played by a world-renowned orchestra and chorus. Head to Orchestra Hall — decked in boughs of holly — for a program of popular carols, holiday favorites and festive surprises. Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Chorus perform lavish, stirring arrangements that are sure to inspire holiday cheer in all.

19 - 23 Dec, 2025

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Chicago, IL · Chicago Symphony Orchestra

3. A Live Presentation of 2001: A Space Odyssey

Hailed as one of the greatest films of all time, Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi epic 2001: A Space Odyssey — renowned for its stunning visuals and groundbreaking use of classical music — features the opening of Richard Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra, Johann Strauss Jr.’s The Blue Danube and the ethereal works of György Ligeti. André de Ridder leads the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in breathtaking live-to-picture performances of this iconic score.

9 - 10 Jan, 2026

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Chicago, IL · Chicago Symphony Orchestra

4. An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti

In a hallmark of his partnership with the CSO, Riccardo Muti takes center stage to conduct selections from Verdi’s enthralling, passion-filled operas. The program also features a lineup of treasured Italian opera repertoire performed by internationally acclaimed singers and the Chicago Symphony Chorus.

19 - 21 Mar, 2026

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Chicago, IL · Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Conclusion

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s 2025-2026 season is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, promising something special for every concertgoer. Each event is meticulously crafted to offer a rich tapestry of sound and emotion, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the beauty of live music. Whether through the grandeur of Verdi, the joy of festive carols, the cinematic brilliance of Kubrick, or the timeless drama of opera, the CSO continues to be a beacon of artistic excellence, enhancing the cultural landscape of Chicago and beyond.

2025 Artelize••