Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Duke Ellington's musical genius with a series of captivating events happening in St Marys, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. From the soulful notes of 'I Ain't Got Nothing But The Blues' to the symphonic splendor of 'New World A-Comin’' and the evocative 'Black, Brown and Beige', these performances promise an unforgettable journey through music history.

A Musical Odyssey: Duke Ellington's Legacy Across St Marys, Cleveland, and Cincinnati

Embark on a musical journey through the rich tapestry of sounds and cultures presented by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. From the emotionally charged Rachmaninoff's Third Piano Concerto to the magical world of Harry Potter, the upcoming events at Cincinnati Music Hall promise to captivate and enchant audiences of all ages. With a diverse lineup that includes holiday classics, cinematic scores, and timeless orchestral masterpieces, this season is a celebration of creative expression and community spirit. Join us as we explore the highlights of this vibrant and dynamic program.

A Symphony of Seasons: Cincinnati's Musical Extravaganza

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is set to showcase an impressive lineup of events that promise to captivate music lovers. From the romantic melodies of Rachmaninoff and Copland to enriching folk traditions and the powerful themes of Dvořák, these performances feature renowned artists like Hilary Hahn, Tina Turner, and Randall Goosby. With each event offering unique renditions of classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions, audiences can expect a diverse blend of music that transcends time and culture. Join us on this artistic voyage as we explore these remarkable performances in the heart of Cincinnati.

A Melodic Journey: Embracing Classics and Innovations with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Step into an orchestral wonderland with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's winter program lineup at the Cincinnati Music Hall. From the evocative Dvořák's New World Symphony to the innovative Beethoven X Beyoncé fusion, February and March 2025 promise a feast for the senses. Highlights include virtuosic performances by renowned violinists Randall Goosby and Gil Shaham, a special birthday celebration concert, and the mesmerizing Classical Roots event celebrating community and culture. Join us in exploring the rich and diverse musical tapestry woven by these world-class artists.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: A Winter Symphony Spectacular

This spring, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is set to captivate audiences with an array of performances that celebrate a rich tapestry of musical genres and artistic contributions. From Ben Folds' genre-bending collaboration with the Cincinnati Pops to the evocative notes of Mahler's Symphony No. 6, the lineup promises an unforgettable experience for all music enthusiasts. Join us as we delve into the highlights of these incredible performances that bring together world-renowned artists and timeless compositions.

A Symphony of Events: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Takes Center Stage

May 2025 is set to be a remarkable month for music enthusiasts, with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra hosting a series of captivating events across multiple venues. From the enchanting tunes of 'Beautiful: The Carole King Musical' and the heartwarming tale of 'Annie' to orchestral masterpieces by Grieg and Ellington, each event promises a unique musical experience. As we delve into the impressive lineup, let's explore the diverse range of performances, the talented artists involved, and the cultural significance of these events.

A Symphony of Events: A Journey with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's 2025 season promises a diverse array of events that engage and inspire audiences. From the patriotic fervor of 'Red, White & Boom!' to the classical elegance of 'Dame Jane Conducts Mozart,' each event offers a unique experience. Notable highlights include the Nina Simone Piano Competition Finals, a celebration of young African American talent, and 'The Voice of Whitney,' a symphonic tribute to Whitney Houston. The season is set to showcase a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, making it a cultural feast for music lovers.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's 2025 Season: A Journey Through Music and Art

In the world of music and arts, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is presenting a lineup that bridges cultural legacies and contemporary creativity. From a celebration of African American pianistic voices to a nostalgic symphonic trip down the memory lanes of Whitney Houston and Final Fantasy, this series of events promises a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. The intriguing performances also include a delightful fusion of cirque acrobatics, pop orchestral magic, and Mozart’s brilliance as conducted by the legendary Dame Jane Glover. Let’s dive into the details of these captivating events.

Cultural Rhythms: Celebrating Diversity and Heritage with Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

This January, Cincinnati Music Hall will become the epicenter of a musical odyssey, featuring a series of captivating performances brought to life by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. From Beethoven's classic compositions to Dolly Parton's storytelling through symphony, and an exploration of African American musical heritage, this season promises an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and innovative artistry. Join us as we delve into the highlights of these performances, celebrating the timeless influence of music across genres and generations.

A Symphony of Innovators: January's Musical Odyssey at Cincinnati Music Hall

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is set to captivate audiences with a series of dynamic and diverse events at the Cincinnati Music Hall. From Mahler's symphonic masterpieces to a family-friendly rendition of 'Peter and the Wolf', and an homage to American spirit in 'American Mosaic', each performance promises an unforgettable experience. Join us as we delve into the highlights, featuring renowned performers, unique compositions, and a celebration of music's rich cultural tapestry.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: A Symphony of Events and Celebrations

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's 2026 spring lineup is a celebration of orchestral grandeur and cultural richness. From the romantic intricacies of Brahms and Schumann to the vibrant narratives of American Mosaic, each event promises a unique musical experience. Featuring renowned artists like Clayton Stephenson, Ben Rector, and Renaud Capuçon, this season is set to captivate audiences with a blend of classic masterpieces and innovative collaborations. Whether you're a fan of orchestral music or exploring it for the first time, these events at the Cincinnati Music Hall are an invitation to discover the emotive power of music.

A Musical Odyssey: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's 2026 Spring Lineup

Salome, the teenage princess of Judea, becomes dangerously fixated on the imprisoned prophet John the Baptist. When he rejects her advances, her desire curdles into obsession. At her stepfather Herod’s birthday feast, Salome dances and, at her maniacal mother’s behest, demands a gruesome reward. Set to Richard Strauss’s lush score, Salome is a fever dream of lust, power, and prophecy, where every glance is loaded and no desire is without cost.

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Salome

Cincinnati Music Hall

Experience the magic of music with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra as they take the stage at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton, CA on May 9th, 2026. Known for their inspiring performances, the orchestra promises an unforgettable evening filled with captivating melodies and harmonies. The concert starts at 19:30, offering a perfect setting for a memorable night out. Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness one of the USA's finest orchestras perform live. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. For more information, visit the official website or check out their YouTube channel.

Alberta Ballet In Notre Dame de Paris

University of Alberta

The season closes in a dramatic and triumphant fashion with some of the greatest classical music ever written. Jennifer Higdon’s brief but striking fanfare sets the tone before Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto opens with a commanding, majestic flourish, instantly igniting a sense of awe. After a moment of lyrical reverie that seems to suspend time, the music propels forward with irrepressible joy and optimism. In contrast, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 delves deep into the human experience, embodying the struggle between fate and the quest for happiness. From its powerful brass fanfare—fate’s ominous call—to the electrifying energy of the finale, the symphony is a deeply cathartic journey through anguish, resilience and eventual exhilaration.

Beethoven & Tchaikovsky

Travel to galaxies far, far away as the Cincinnati Pops performs the best music from across the Star Wars universe by John Williams, Michael Giacchino and Ludwig Göransson. From “The Imperial March” to “Rey’s Theme,” you’ll hear music from the films in the Skywalker saga, plus the TV series and more. May the Force be with you!

The Music Of Star Wars

Perfect for curious ears and seasoned listeners alike, this program spins musical tales with a splash of humor. Gernot Wolfgang’s New York Moments paints a jazz-tinged portrait of city life — rhythmic, sleek and full of surprises. Martinů’s cheeky La Revue de Cuisine is a witty, dance-inspired suite drawn from his playful ballet about love and rivalry among kitchen utensils. The evening closes with Brahms’s Piano Trio No. 2, a heartfelt work that anchors the program with a striking balance between light and dark. 

Stories In Sound

Experience Stravinsky’s The Firebird like never before. Paired with the storytelling power of larger-than-life puppets designed by South African director and creator Janni Younge, world-renowned for the award-winning play War Horse, this evocative production draws from the symbolism of the original ballet choreography and reinterprets it in a contemporary South African setting. Music Director Cristian Mӑcelaru, the CSO and expert puppeteers and dancers from Janni Younge Productions come together in this sonic and theatrical depiction of The Firebird that builds to a dramatic, fiery finish. Mahler’s unfinished tone poem Totenfeier opens the program — a deeply introspective and intense experience, the work ultimately developed into the opening of his monumental Resurrection Symphony.

Stravinsky’s Firebird

Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony is a musical journey through the misty landscapes and ancient ruins of Scotland. Inspired by the composer’s travels, the symphony captures the rugged beauty and haunting mystery of the Highlands in a way that is both deeply personal and universally enchanting. Opening the program, Adolphe’s Underneath the Sheen envisions the movement of light through the canopy of the redwood forest, and Lise de la Salle joins for Chopin’s intimate and poetic Second Piano Concerto.

Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3

Conjure the animated universe of Hayao Miyazaki's acclaimed and award-winning films with the spellbinding scores of Joe Hisaishi. Featuring music from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's Delivery Service, your Cincinnati Pops presents the music of legendary Studio Ghibli favorites. Just as iconic as the films themselves, the music of Ghibli evokes wonder, nostalgia and adventure, perfect for anime fans and music lovers both young and young at heart. 

The Music Of Studio Ghibli

The program opens with the constant underlying motor rhythm of American composer Margaret Brouwer’s Pulse. Then, James Ehnes weaves lush, lyrical violin melodies with Scottish folk themes, all before Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 takes you on a cinematic journey through the depths of the human spirit. Filled with brooding drama, soaring melodies and moments of breathtaking beauty, it’s like a love letter written in sound — one of longing, hope and elation — and remains one of his most beloved works for orchestra.

Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2

Platinum-selling indie superstar Ben Rector returns to perform with the Cincinnati Pops! His "Songs for America” is a collection of original songs written to celebrate American cities and states, inspired by his fifteen years of cross-country travel as a touring artist. Equal parts golden-era pop, Broadway and modern hymn, Ben brings this brand-new orchestral collaboration to Music Hall for a one-of-a-kind acoustic show that features the intimacy of guitar and piano with the strength of a full symphony orchestra.

BEN RECTOR: Songs for America

For over two decades, Classical Roots has been a Cincinnati community staple celebrating the rich legacy of African American music. Love and community will ring throughout Music Hall when the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Classical Roots Community Choir, Nouveau Program and more come together for an evening of joyful song. JMR leads an inspirational program that will light up your heart and bring you to your feet!

Classical Roots

Haydn's Symphony No. 103 opens with a dramatic flourish, as rolling timpani set the stage for a work that combines energetic precision with whimsical surprises. Next, French violinist Renaud Capuçon brings out the drama, grace, and elegance of Mozart's Strassburg Concerto, before Beethoven's Symphony No. 2 surges to a powerful conclusion, filled with the vibrant, youthful energy of his early years.

Beethoven, Mozart & Haydn

When we work together, we can do amazing things. That's why we need your help! Join us as the CSO demonstrates and celebrates teamwork on stage and with the audience!

Dynamic Duos

Be uplifted and inspired by a powerful new musical-visual work created by composer Peter Boyer and photographer Joe Sohm. Stunning video imagery from across all 50 states, passages from Boyer’s quintessential American-themed orchestral music, plus live narration of powerful, relevant quotes from throughout American history will combine to celebrate the land, cities, towns, people and spirit of the United States for its 250th birthday.

American Mosaic

Romantic masterpieces take center stage with Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée. Inaugural Nina Simone Piano Concerto Competition winner Clayton Stephenson opens the program with Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 — a lush, expansive dialogue between soloist and orchestra that flows with both grandeur and intimacy. Then, Schumann's Symphony No. 4 bursts onto the stage with energy and romantic fervor, weaving a metaphorical journey of human struggle, introspection and ultimate triumph.

Brahms & Schumann

Journey through the expressive lens of the string quartet! Grażyna Bacewicz’s Quartet for Four Violins opens the program with a lively and modern twist on traditional form. Bedřich Smetana’s deeply personal From My Life quartet follows, blending romantic lyricism with Czech folk spirit. Beethoven’s luminous Harp quartet, nicknamed for its graceful, plucked passages, closes out the evening with warmth and elegance.  

Quartets Through Time

Samuel Lee, winner of the prestigious Malko Competition and former Associate Conductor of the CSO, returns for a sublime evening of music. Louise Farrenc’s Overture No. 2 opens the program with a brief glimpse into the musical world of 19th-century France, which flows into the delicate dances of Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, laced with a tender homage to the French Baroque. The mood deepens with Ravel’s Piano Concerto for the Left Hand, where the soloist’s single hand conjures a world of bold orchestral textures and haunting melodies. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4, a work of remarkable charm and exuberance, radiates with joy, celebrating the composer’s lighter, yet deeply profound, musical soul.

Beethoven & Ravel

Members of the CSYO Philharmonic sit with their CSO counterparts to perform a thrilling hour of music. The students sit in the principal chairs and take the lead in this annual showcase.

CSYO-CSO Side by Side

Big sounds for little ears! Bring your kiddos to Music Hall for a magical musical adventure as Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved tale of Peter and the Wolf comes to life on stage through the sounds of the orchestra. With a playful narrator and vibrant music, kids will meet Peter, the duck, the cat, the bird — and even the big, sneaky wolf — as they learn how music can tell a story without words.

Peter And The Wolf

Anna Thorvaldsdottir’s ARCHORA hums with a tension that builds to a haunting ethereal calm, creating an atmospheric soundscape where swirling textures and deep resonances evoke the primal forces of nature. Then, Mahler's Rückert-Lieder soars with profound lyricism, transporting you through fragile, introspective moments of beauty and sorrow. Finally, Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 unfurls in radiant orchestral color, its playful, soaring melodies eventually giving way to a serene, celestial finale.

Mahler Symphony No. 4

This all-ages, sensory-friendly performance celebrates the connection between autism and music, both of which exist on a vast spectrum. Produced in partnership with The Well, and featuring orchestral music from across genres, the program invites you to explore how sound shapes emotions, thoughts, and interactions. Much like neurodiversity, music reminds us that there is no single way to experience the world — we hope this concert will inspire you to feel, imagine and connect with music in your own unique way.

Access To Music

In her CSO debut, Ukranian conductor Oksana Lyniv leads a program that weaves together powerful stories. Evgeni Orkin’s Five Interrupted Lullabies opens with a series of haunting lullabies, each symbolically interrupted to mark innocence lost to war. Smetana’s “The Moldau” spins and swirls as it journeys along the winding Vltava River, while Dvořák’s Golden Spinning Wheel weaves a tale of fate and destiny, where enchanting melodies intertwine with dark, mysterious forces. Esther Yoo joins for Prokofiev’s First Violin Concerto, written during the 1917 Russian Revolution and telling a story all its own.

Slavic Legends

Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs In Symphony, is an innovative multimedia experience featuring Dolly on screen, leading audiences in a visual-musical journey of her songs, her life, and her stories. Guest vocalists and musicians selected by Dolly, along with the Cincinnati Pops, will present new and innovative orchestrations of her hit songs, including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You,” in addition to her personal favorites and a selection from her upcoming Broadway musical.

DOLLY PARTON’S THREADS: My Songs in Symphony

From introspection to exhilaration, experience a rich tapestry of chamber music that bridges centuries and styles. The concert opens with J.S. Bach’s iconic Chaconne, arranged for two cellos — a powerful transformation of a solo Baroque classic into a rich dialogue. Martinů’s String Quartet No. 4 follows, bursting with rhythmic drive and modern energy. The evening concludes with Ravel’s mesmerizing Piano Trio, a dazzling display of color, nuance and French impressionism. 

Baroque And Beyond

Celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. in a program highlighting some of the most influential African American artists and composers of our time. Margaret Bonds’ Montgomery Variations, her tribute to civil rights leader Rosa Parks, is infused with themes of struggle, resistance and dignity. Bass Morris Robinson narrates an original poem by Rita Dove, former Poet Laureate Consultant to the Library of Congress, against Barber’s solemn Adagio for Strings, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Wynton Marsalis takes the 12-bar blues and explodes it into a lyrical, kaleidoscopic history of American music.

American Voices

Music Director Cristian Mӑcelaru leads a program featuring two music innovators from two different centuries — Beethoven and Bjarnason. Beethoven was considered the greatest music innovator of his generation, and piano powerhouse Daniil Trifonov returns to Music Hall to lend his signature finesse and emotional sensitivity to the composer’s elegant Second Piano Concerto. Then, the Orchestra performs the final installment of Icelandic composer Daníel Bjarnason’s multi-year Trilogy for Orchestra.

Trifonov Plays Beethoven

Ever wonder what your toys do when you’re not around? Toy Story answers that question through the eyes of two rival toys — Woody, the lanky, likable cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear, the fearless space ranger. When circumstances separate them from their owner, the duo learn to put aside their differences and embark on an adventure-filled mission to return home. The Cincinnati Pops go to infinity and beyond as they bring Buzz and Woody’s journey to life on the big screen!

DISNEY & PIXAR'S TOY STORY in Concert

Password, please! Travel across Berlin, New York, Paris, Buenos Aires and beyond as you ring in the New Year in the style of 1930s cabaret speakeasies. With an intoxicating blend of decadence, rebellion and raw emotion, cabaret music thrives on the tension between love and tragedy. Join JMR and the Pops as they perform iconic songs of Kander and Ebb (Cabaret, Chicago), Kurt Weill (Threepenny Opera), Edith Piaf (La Vie en Rose) and more. Your evening at our cabaret café will be one of playful indulgence.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: Cabaret Café

There's nothing quite as magical as the Pops during the holiday season, when family memories are created anew at festive, sold-out performances of Holiday Pops! This December, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Cody Fry will join JMR, the Pops, choruses and dancers from around the city to bring your holiday favorites to life.

Holiday Pops

The trumpet shall sound. Join the CSO, the May Festival Chorus and an all-star cast of soloists for Handel’s Messiah. Music Director Cristian Mӑcelaru conducts one of his most cherished works, featuring joyful movements like the famous Hallelujah Chorus that have become forever and ever holiday traditions. This is the Messiah experience of the season!

Handel’s Messiah

This Thanksgiving, explore cultural roots and the concept of “home.” Simon’s Tales draws on African American folklore, traditions, and spirituals, while Bielawa connects to violin solist Tessa Lark's American roots in Appalachia in her work PULSE. Copland’s theme from Appalachian Spring, based on the Shaker hymn “Simple Gifts,” evokes simplicity, peace, and community. In contrast, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 7, written during a period of personal struggle, reflects his Czech heritage and the political turmoil of his homeland.

Dvořák Symphony No. 7

Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée returns for a program of soundscapes and storytelling. Jennifer Higdon’s ethereal blue cathedral shimmers with winds, brass and percussion, creating a sonic journey through a sacred space, from peaceful contemplation to ecstatic joy. CSO soloists shine in Mozart’s lively Sinfonia Concertante through an exchange of playful and virtuosic dialogue, then Stravinsky’s Petrushka draws you into the world of a carnival and the tragic love triangle between a clown, a ballerina and her handsome paramour.

Louis Conducts Petrushka

Get ready to vote! The instrument families show off their unique skills and sounds, and you get to pick your favorite. Who will win? It's up to YOU!

The Great Debate

The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra is proud to present a sensory-friendly Lollipops in partnership with the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Get ready to move, groove and clap along at Let’s Dance! From toe-tapping tangos to bouncy ballet and funky folk dances from around the world, this program brings rhythm and motion center stage. This playful performance introduces children to the orchestra through dance-inspired music, showing how different instruments and sounds can make you want to march, twirl or even hop around!

Let’s Dance!

Thirty years after Illmatic’s critically acclaimed release, Grammy winning hip-hop legend Nas performs the iconic album in its entirety — plus additional tracks from his illustrious career — with the Cincinnati Pops! Released in 1994, Illmatic is the groundbreaking debut from Nas and has long been considered one of the greatest hip-hop records of all time with hits including “N.Y. State of Mind,” “The World Is Yours,” “Memory Lane (Sittin’ in Da Park),” and “It Ain’t Hard to Tell.”

Can you hear the bells? Rachmaninoff’s choral symphony The Bells — inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s poem of the same name — evokes the experience of bells ringing through the phases of life, and features Cincinnati’s own May Festival Chorus. Then, Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique takes you inside the delirious fever-dream of a young artist driven mad by unrequited love. Fueled by opium-induced hallucinations, the visions culminate in a sabbath dance where the bells toll a haunting clamor

The Bells & Symphonie Fantastique

One of the greatest musicians of our lifetime, cellist Yo-Yo Ma reunites with his friend Cristian Mӑcelaru for a special one-night-only event. The program opens with two powerful, slashing chords from Brahms’ Tragic Overture that set the evening in motion. Then, Yo-Yo Ma brings his unmatched sensitivity and technical prowess to Elgar’s Cello Concerto, one of the most profound and emotionally charged works in the repertoire. As a final treat, Mӑcelaru gifts everyone a little piece of his native Romania with Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody.

Yo-yo Ma Plays Elgar

"It’s all just a bunch of hocus pocus!" Join Max, Allison and Dani on a magical Halloween romp through Salem as they match wits with the legendary Sanderson sisters. Catch this bewitching film on the big screen as the Cincinnati Pops performs the score live to film. Dust off your broom — or vacuum! — and zoom down to Music Hall for a night of music and movie magic.

DISNEY’S HOCUS POCUS in Concert

Written during a time of political and personal turmoil, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 4 unfolds with boldness and intensity. Never performed by the CSO, the massive symphony reflects Shostakovich’s defiance and anguish, marked by shifts from lush orchestration to aggressive dissonance. In contrast, Stella Chen, Gramophone 2023 Young Artist of the Year, joins the CSO for one of the most beautiful violin concertos of all time, wherein Barber’s signature lyricism tugs on heartstrings through his haunting, melancholic melodies.

Barber & Shostakovich

Grammy and Emmy Nominated singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson makes her highly anticipated debut with the Cincinnati Pops! Ingrid has become a defining force in the music industry, with chart-topping hits like “The Way I Am,” “Girls Chase Boys,” and “You & I,” all certified gold and platinum. With her blend of introspective lyrics and timeless melodies, Ingrid will bring a fresh, captivating mix of her iconic songs and new material for a mesmerizing fusion of pop and orchestral music.

Ingrid Michaelson

Widely regarded as a preeminent conductor of Mozart’s music, Dame Jane Glover returns for an “all-Amadeus” program, showcasing the composer’s signature bright and playful sound. The Overture to Lucio Silla, which Mozart wrote when he was just 16, opens with all the youthful flair and operatic drama of Mozart’s early years. Then, CSO Concertmaster Stefani Matsuo and Principal Viola Christian Colberg transport listeners to a Viennese ball with Mozart’s dance-like Sinfonia Concertante, all before the program culminates with his monumental final symphony, Jupiter.

Dame Jane Conducts Mozart

The Sandy Arts Guild presents Bright Star When successful literary editor Alice Murphy meets an ambitious young soldier just home from World War II, their connection inspires Alice to confront her past.

Bright Star

The Theater at Mount Jordan

Cristian Mӑcelaru makes his highly anticipated debut as CSO Music Director in this celebratory and historic program you won’t want to miss. Time stands still as opening pedal tones in Anna Clyne’s Abstractions draw you right in. Then, acclaimed pianist Hélène Grimaud reunites with the CSO for one of Mӑcelaru’s favorite concertos, Gershwin’s jazzy and sophisticated Concerto in F. The evening caps off with Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier, full of lilting waltzes and heart-wrenching swells that lead to a triumphant grand finale

Cristian Mǎcelaru’s Debut

Legendary conductor Arnie Roth will lead the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and May Festival Chorus performing classic works by Nobuo Uematsu, Masashi Hamauzu, Masayoshi Soken, Yoko Shimomura and other great FINAL FANTASY composers from throughout the FINAL FANTASY series.

DISTANT WORLDS: music from FINAL FANTASY

Experience Whitney Houston’s musical legacy like never before. This special concert tribute features original and remastered recordings of Whitney’s vocals set to new orchestrations in a one-of-a-kind reimagining of her biggest hits — including “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Higher Love” and “I Will Always Love You” — all accompanied by never-before-seen video footage, film performances and interviews.

THE VOICE OF WHITNEY: A Symphonic Celebration

Fusing together elements of cirque acrobatics, classical dance and contemporary theatre, Troupe Vertigo brings audiences on a spellbinding journey through the world of artistic movement. Using highly stylized choreography, lighting and music to create scenes with imaginative visual landscapes, prepare to be mesmerized by music from Bizet, Lecuona, Albéniz and more, as reimagined by the fantastical Troupe Vertigo and the Cincinnati Pops.

TROUPE VERTIGO: Cirque España!

Created to give a platform to talented young African American pianists, the Competition aims to get more African American artists on concert stages, to commission new works, and to add more African American pianistic voices to the classical canon. The initial rounds of the competition will take place this summer in Cincinnati on the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music campus.

Nina Simone Piano Competition Finals

Join JMR and the Cincinnati Pops for its annual July 4 celebration, featuring patriotic favorites and a spectacular post-concert firework show! Complete with ample space to picnic and play at Riverbend, there’s no better way to celebrate.

Red, White & Boom!

Riverbend Music Center

In a performance inspired by her 2023 Grammy-Award winning album, experience the turbulence and resilience of Mother Nature's life as Renée Fleming performs music by Handel, Nico Muhly, Björk and Lord of The Rings' Howard Shore—all set against a backdrop of stunning film from the National Geographic Society.

VOICE OF NATURE: The Anthropocene

The Geraldine V. Chavez Center for the Choral Arts

Glimpse into the love, life and intimacy between two of the 20th century’s most prominent artists. Celebrated soprano Renée Fleming and baritone Rod Gilfry portray painter Georgia O’Keeffe and photographer Alfred Stieglitz as a montage of their lives, captured through art, photos and love letters, is revealed on a screen above the stage

The Brightness Of Light

Visceral and soul-gripping, Verdi’s Requiem will rip your heart out and put it back together again. From its tender solo moments to the terrifying cries of the “Dies irae,” it’s a journey both fragile and powerful as the May Festival Chorus and Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra combine for this breathtaking Mass for the departed.

Verdi Requiem

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.
– Jacques Cousteau

CSYO PHILHARMONIC: Seascapes

CSYO CONCERT ORCHESTRA: Sinfonia Espansiva

Designed with young professionals and families in mind, the Listening Lounge offers a welcoming and accessible arts experience for all. In partnership with May Festival Minis, the evening kicks off with an interactive music activity for the kiddos, followed by a live performance by CSO percussionist Joe Bricker! The event then transitions into a relaxed social setting, where parents can enjoy the first half of the CSO’s livestreamed concert over a drink, while kid-friendly activities keep young attendees entertained.

Listening Lounge: Play/Date

Grieg’s Piano Concerto is a jewel that dazzles from every angle. One of the most famous and enjoyable works of all time, its radiant charms shine in the hands of pianist and former MAC Music Innovator Michelle Cann. Pops Principal Guest Conductor, Damon Gupton leads the CSO in a treasure trove of evocative works, from Dvořák's symphonic poem of Slavic mythology to Duke Ellington’s many hues.

Grieg & Ellington

Recommended 6+ Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including intermission)

Annie (Touring)

Dolby Theatre

Experience a night of unforgettable music with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra on May 3, 2025, at the Byers Theatre in Sandy Springs, US. Renowned for their dynamic performances and innovative programming, the orchestra will take the stage at 8:00 PM, promising an evening filled with the rich sounds of symphonic music. Don't miss the chance to see one of the United States' leading orchestras perform live. For a sneak peek of their captivating performances, visit their official YouTube channel. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster. For more information, visit the official website of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Beautiful: the Carole King Musical (Touring)

Byers Theatre

Best known for starring on Broadway in Wicked and Hamilton, and for her portrayal of Nina Rosario in the Tony Award-winning musical In the Heights, Broadway icon Mandy Gonzalez joins JMR and the Pops in a celebration of the Latine voices of Broadway, such as Lin-Manuel Miranda, Rita Moreno and Linda Ronstadt. Expect hits from In the Heights, Hamilton, Moana and many more!

MANDY GONZALEZ: La Vida Broadway

This all-ages, sensory-friendly performance, featuring conductor Jaap van Zweden and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, celebrates the connection between autism and music, both of which exist on a vast spectrum. Featuring music from Strauss, Bernstein, John Williams and others, the program invites you to explore how sound shapes emotions, thoughts, and interactions. Much like neurodiversity, music reminds us that there is no single way to experience the world — we hope this concert will inspire you to feel, imagine and connect with music in your own unique way.

Access to Music

Conductor Jaap van Zweden leads the CSO in Mahler’s colossal Sixth Symphony. From the first ominous beat of the strings, the work builds to shocking intensity, full of soaring melodies and towering brass, abruptly contrasted by profoundly sweet interludes. It’s all the drama you need. In time, Mahler’s whole heartfelt world becomes obliterated by cataclysmic hammerblows.

Mahler Symphony No. 6

Beethoven’s symphonies are revolutionary, genre-defining triumphs. The Third, originally titled “Bonaparte,” in dedication to Napoleon, creates a conquering storm that doesn’t resolve until the very end. Soloist Simone Lamsma returns for Max Bruch’s astonishingly beautiful and ultra-challenging First Violin Concerto and the CSO begins with Lili Boulanger’s introspective ode to spring.

Beethoven Symphony No. 3

Emmy-award nominated composer, singer-songwriter, and pianist Ben Folds joins the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for a night of exceptional performances. Widely regarded as one of the major musical influences of our generation, Folds’ enormous body of genre-bending music includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. His latest album, 2023’s "What Matters Most", is a blend of piano-driven pop rock songs, while his 2015 "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra" soared to #1 on both the Billboard classical and classical crossover charts. For nearly two decades, Folds has performed with some of the world’s greatest symphony orchestras and currently serves as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center.

BEN FOLDS live with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra

Sir Donald Runnicles leads a peak Orchestral experience. Violinist Maria Ioudenitch brings elegance and poise to Mendelssohn’s soaring violin concerto. Strauss’ An Alpine Symphony follows the path of a mountain ascent, from dawn until night, through mist and storms, darkness and unfathomable heights, taking you to another world from the very first chords. Where it leads is nothing less than a total exploration of the possibilities of sound and the CSO at Music Hall.

Strauss Alpine Symphony

In 1939, contralto Marian Anderson faced a pivotal moment in history when she performed at the Lincoln Memorial after being barred from Constitution Hall due to her race. Her powerful voice resonated in the open air and with the American spirit, transcending barriers. Join us for a special screening of Voice of Freedom, a compelling documentary that weaves together Anderson’s remarkable life and this historic event, while exploring fundamental questions of talent, race, fame, democracy and the American soul.

Voice of Freedom

Rossini always had a flair for the dramatic and his Duetto for Cello and Double Bass is no exception. The piece delights in depth of color, tone and richness, revealing witty melodies and soulful virtuosity. Fauré’s Piano Quartet is a passionate personal statement of the composer, evoking a more somber and serious mood throughout. Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 9, the third in his series of <Razumovsky/> quartets, oscillates between darkness and light while churning with emotional depth and innovative plays on harmony.

Romantic Strings

Rimsky-Korsakov’s Sheherazade, based on the legendary stories of One Thousand and One Nights, is a wild ride full of big moments for brass plus a famous violin solo for CSO Concertmaster Stefani Matsuo. Arturo Márquez’ Fandango pays tribute to dances of Mexico, performed here by Anne Akiko Meyers, the soloist it was written for. Yuzo Toyama’s Rhapsody centers on folk songs from his native Japan.

Sheherazade

This unique CSO Proof event is more than just a performance — it's an opportunity to participate in a concert experience where you — the audience — can learn the tango and join the performers. After a performance by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and professional tango dancers, expert instructors will guide you through the basic steps of tango in an engaging and accessible lesson. Participate in as little or as much of the experience as you’d like! 

CSO PROOF: Tango Lab

From Billie Holiday and Josephine Baker to Langston Hughes and Duke Ellington, the Harlem Renaissance was a period of Black creative cultural expression in the United States that greatly influenced the sound of Jazz and Blues as we know it today. JMR, the Cincinnati Pops and special guests celebrate the centennial anniversary of the beginning of the Harlem Renaissance, with the music, dance and poetry of an all-American movement known around the world.

AMERICAN ORIGINALS: Harlem Renaissance

Love and community ring throughout Music Hall when the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the Classical Roots Community Choir and Nouveau Program celebrate a much-beloved Queen City tradition. JMR leads an inspirational program — an evening of powerful performances that will fill your heart with joy and bring you to your feet!

Take a musical tour of Rome with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Two of Respighi’s epic showpieces bring rushing fountains, towering pines, mysterious catacombs, and triumphant Roman legions to Music Hall. Richard Strauss’ final work, four hauntingly beautiful last songs, sing of acceptance, transformation, and fruition at the end of one’s long journey.

Fountains & Pines Of Rome

Conrad Tao is a Cincinnati fan favorite at this point. The pianist-composer returns for an all-solo program playing Debussy studies by the book, a shimmery reimagining of Schumann’s haunting music for a weeping bride, and one of Tao’s own explosive explorations of the piano’s far-reaching potential

Cso Recital Series: Conrad Tao

Conductor Samuel Lee and the CSO provide the soundtrack as we celebrate the birthdays of 300 years of music and sing “Happy Birthday” to a brand-new piece!

Birthday Party!

This Valentine’s weekend, fall in love with the intensity and driving pulse of Brahms’ last symphony, an exhilarating bouquet of heart-on-sleeve melodies and relentless passion. Violin virtuoso Gil Shaham brings his signature joy and pitch-perfect technique to Dvořák’s Violin Concerto, filled with rich folk-like energy born out of the traditions of the composer’s homeland, and conductor John Storgårds returns, starting the program with the CSO premiere of music by Victoria Polevá. 

Gil Shaham Plays Dvořák

This Valentine’s weekend, fall in love with the intensity and driving pulse of Brahms’ last symphony, an exhilarating bouquet of heart-on-sleeve melodies and relentless passion. Violin virtuoso Gil Shaham brings his signature joy and pitch-perfect technique to Dvořák’s Violin Concerto and conductor John Storgårds returns, starting the program with the CSO premiere of music by Victoria Polevá.

Brahms Symphony No. 4

Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, the 1800’s ultimate dance club track, becomes the backdrop for an innovative fusion. Fifteen chart-topping hits from Beyoncé’s iconic discography —including “Girls,” “Crazy in Love,” “Sorry,” “Halo,” “Cuff It,” “Single Ladies” and “Texas Hold ‘Em”— are seamlessly interwoven into this musical journey.

Beethoven X Beyoncé

Dvořák’s New World Symphony moves with magnificent energies and melodies that feel like home. Hearing it performed by the CSO at Music Hall is a must-have experience. Randall Goosby, a new champion of Florence Price’s solo works, returns for the composer’s Second Violin Concerto plus Chausson’s most popular work. Selections from Wynton Marsalis Blues Symphony trace the blueprints of a quintessential American style.

Dvořák New World Symphony

You’ll start your evening with a full performance of Dvořák’s New World Symphony — a work that resonates with emotional depth and continues to evoke a sense of longing, discovery, and the blending of old and new worlds.

Dvořák Deconstructed

LOLLIPOPS: Lost in Space!

Till Eulenspiegel follows the exploits of a noted trickster — but doesn’t fool around — the super virtuosic work is a freewheeling tour de force for every member of the Orchestra, beginning with a famous French horn solo. CSO Principal Horn Elizabeth Freimuth steps into the spotlight with a popular early concerto by Strauss and Debussy’s impressionistic Images create the musical equivalent of a Monet masterpiece.

Strauss + Debussy

All three composers on this program took inspiration from folk music traditions. Eastern European Chassidic melodies inspired Schoenfeld’s Trio for Clarinet, Violin and Piano, highlighting the popular dance rhythms of klezmer music, while Babajanian’s dramatic and moody Piano Trio is rooted in the folk music of his native Armenia. The theme of Grieg’s astonishingly rich, and almost orchestral String Quartet, takes its inspiration from Norwegian folk tales and Hardanger fiddle music.

Folk Traditions

The richness and beauty of the cello comes through brilliantly when CSO Principal Cello Ilya Finkelshteyn plays the spellbinding melodies of Saint-Saëns’ firework First Concerto. The magical evening ties-in music by Mozart and Jimmy López Bellido, each inspired by fairy tales. Prokofiev’s poignant and profound orchestral farewell provides a thrilling showpiece for the entire Orchestra.

The Magic Cello

All hail the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll." Tina Turner’s singular voice provided the soundtrack of a generation and her story inspired hearts and minds around the world. With a career including 12 Grammy wins and more than 100 million records sold worldwide, she was simply “better than all the rest.” Join the Pops for a tour of Turner’s iconic musical legacy featuring hits like “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Disco Inferno” and more!

Simply The Best: The Music Of Tina Turner

Violinist Hillary Hahn’s playing is “at once impetuous and authoritative, brilliant and beautiful,” (The New York Times). The 3-time Grammy Award-winner returns to Music Hall for the first time since 2016 to perform timeless solo works by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Cso Recital Series: Hilary Hahn

Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto churns with uber-romantic melodies and Unsuk Chin’s music delights in contrasts. Copland’s last symphony, ringing with bells and brass, brings us home. The finale builds on Fanfare for the Common Man — an enduring masterpiece written for and premiered by the CSO at Music Hall — signaling the culmination and convergence of the composer’s entire career.

Rachmaninoff & Copland

Copland’s final symphony, ringing with bells and brass, builds on Fanfare for the Common Man — an enduring masterpiece written for and premiered by the CSO at Music Hall — and which embodies the hope, resilience, and idealism of the American spirit.

COPLAND: Symphony in Light

Join the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for a wondrous journey into the mysterious world of Harry Potter. Using only music, with no film projections, the Pops will bring to life the magical music of all eight Harry Potter films, plus more from the “Potterverse,” featuring the iconic themes you know and love. The concert will also include insights from the books and films, interactive games and trivia experiences. 

A NIGHT AT HOGWARTS: The Music of Harry Potter

Ring in the New Year with the Pops and the sophisticated and timeless music of Cole Porter! Join Tony DeSare and his guests Aubrey Logan (trombone/vocals) and John Manzari (tap dance/vocals) as they give their fresh spin on such hits as: “Night and Day,” “I Get A Kick Out of You,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “It’s De-Lovely,” “You’re the Top,” and many more.


Let's Misbehave: The Music Of Cole Porter

Music is on a higher plane than everything else in the world.
– Jean Sibelius

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Jul 17, 2026

Woodlawn/lincoln Heights Brady Block Party

Jul 25 - Aug 2, 2026

Carmen

5 - 6 Sep, 2026

LA LA LAND in Concert

12 - 13 Sep, 2026

Lea Salonga

Sep 16, 2026

BOYZ II MEN with the Cincinnati Pops

18 - 20 Jun, 2026

Salome

9 - 10 May, 2026

Alberta Ballet In Notre Dame de Paris

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