Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Chicago Symphony Orchestra - Specializing in Music

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is a world-renowned orchestra that has been supplying the Windy City with amazing musical talent since its founding 117 years ago.

The CSO has been a Chicago favorite since 1891 and was started by Theodore Thomas, a very renowned conductor in America at that time. Chicago businessman Charles Norman Fay invited Thomas to start an orchestra in Chicago.

The Orchestra Hall, in which the CSO resides, was finished in 1905 under Thomas' leadership. Thomas died just 13 weeks after entering the new hall. Since then, 12 conductors have led the CSO to be the world-famous orchestra it is today.

The CSO offers more than 150 performances per year, ranging from small chamber-sized venues to huge theatrical, symphonic presentations at its home in Chicago, other parts of the U.S., and all over the world.

The CSO is comprised of 107 talented musicians, including Robert Chen who is the current Concertmaster. There are also two internationally renowned conductors who lead the CSO: Bernard Haitink, Principal Conductor and Pierre Boulez, Conductor Emeritus. The CSO also has two award-winning composers-in-residence: Osvaldo Golijov and Mark-Anthony Turnage.

The CSO has many performances yet this year including many performances at the famed Ravinia Festival as well as many concerts and special performances in Orchestra Hall. For a full performance schedule and to learn more about the CSO, check out their website.  

Listing Information

URL: www.cso.org
Phone: 312-294-3000

Type > Music