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Home , Chen Reiss, Chicago Symphony Chorus, Daniil Trifonov, Frankfurt Radio Symphony, Joyce DiDonato, Kirill Gerstein

CHICAGO SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING FOR THE 2016/17 SEASON

CHICAGO (January 26, 2016)— , Music Director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and Jeff Alexander, President of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association (CSOA), announce the programming for the CSO and Presents (SCP) 2016/17 season—the Orchestra’s 126th season and Muti’s seventh as its music director.

In the upcoming season, several focal points for Riccardo Muti and the CSO include a 125th birthday concert officially concluding the anniversary season and recreating the program performed at the Orchestra’s very first concert in 1891; performances of all four symphonies by Brahms during Muti’s May 2017 residency; and a first- ever performance by the CSO and Chicago Symphony Chorus of Prokofiev’s epic work Ivan the Terrible featuring Gérard Depardieu as narrator, as part of a season-long celebration of Prokofiev’s 125th birthday.

In addition, Muti leads a season-finale program of Italian masterworks that includes several Verdi selections, as well as a CSO premiere performance of Boito’s Prologue to Mefistofele with the Chicago Symphony Chorus and bass soloist Riccardo Zanellato. Muti also leads the world premiere performance of the CSO-commissioned work by Mead Composer-in-Residence Samuel Adams in March 2017, one of four world premieres to be performed in the 2016/17 season.

Muti and the CSO also appear in the second concert of a new, three-concert series at Edman Memorial Chapel at Wheaton College in March 2017. The series launches in October 2016 with a performance led by guest conductor Andrés Orozco-Estrada, who makes his subscription debut this season, and concludes in April 2017 with a performance led by guest conductor Christoph von Dohnányi.

"As we anticipate the beginning of the CSO's 2016-2017 season, we look forward to the Orchestra's extraordinary music making through a wide variety of programs including some of the most beloved works ever written, along with several exciting world premieres," stated CSOA President Jeff Alexander. "We are also pleased to be expanding our activities in the western suburbs, and continuing our special concerts, Symphony Center Presents series and expansive community engagement activities. The 2016-2017 season contains over 200 concerts for almost every musical taste and we invite people from Chicago and around the world to enjoy them."

In 2016/17, the CSO also continues its rich tradition of international touring; since its founding in 1891, the Orchestra has made 59 international tours, performing in 29 countries on five continents. The CSO also maintains a distinguished legacy of recording; recordings have earned 62 Grammy® Awards from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, further contributing to the Orchestra’s international reputation. Global engagement continues now also through webcasts, streaming and an online magazine, csosoundsandstories.org.

This season, Muti leads 10 weeks of subscription concerts in five residencies with the Orchestra in Chicago, with appearances in September and October 2016 and February, March, May and June 2017.

Of particular note in 2016/17 are:

 A free community concert at Apostolic Church of God near Chicago’s Hyde Park and Kenwood neighborhoods, conducted by Music Director Riccardo Muti  A season-long celebration of Prokofiev commemorating his 125th birthday  All four of Brahms’ symphonies, led by Muti, in two consecutive weeks  A survey of all five Beethoven concertos, three led by Muti, one by guest conductor David Afkham, and one as part of the Symphony Center Presents series with the Budapest Festival Orchestra led by Iván Fischer—Featured soloists include , Yefim Bronfman, , and  World-premiere performances of CSO-commissioned works by Melinda Wagner and Mead Composer-in- Residence Samuel Adams, and co-commissions by Esa-Pekka Salonen and Carl Vine  A special return to the podium by for CSO subscription concerts in November 2016  A salute to American composer John Adams in honor of his 70th birthday  A focus on choral and vocal masterworks, including requiems by Brahms and Fauré  Eighteen works receive their first-ever performances by the CSO, including Prokofiev’s Ivan the Terrible  The CSO’s 125th anniversary celebration culminates with the annual Symphony Ball gala on October 15, 2016  Debuts by talented soloists—violinist Baiba Skride, sopranos Christiane Karg, Regula Mühlemann and Chen Reiss, mezzo-sopranos Sarah Connolly and Joyce DiDonato, and baritone Michael Nagy—and guest conductors , Jakub Hrůša, Emmanuel Krivine, Andrés Orozco-Estrada and Juraj Valčuha The Symphony Center Presents (SCP) series continues to bring to Chicago a wide range of today’s leading artists and ensembles from all genres of music. Highlights this season include SCP series appearances by CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma in an all-new Bach Project with frequent artistic collaborators Chris Thile and Edgar Meyer, as well as the return of violinist and . Additional SCP series highlights include the Symphony Center debuts of British Benjamin Grosvenor and Russian-German pianist Igor Levit, the return of to the Piano series and a powerful two-piano program featuring and Marc-André Hamelin.

In addition, Beethoven’s Second featuring Richard Goode as soloist with the Budapest Festival Orchestra led by Iván Fisher is part of performances of all five Beethoven piano concertos at Symphony Center in the 2016/17 season.

The 2016/17 SCP Jazz series programming details will be announced in April.

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The programs of the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 2016/17 complement the CSO’s subscription programs and demonstrate the commitment of Muti and the CSOA to supporting young musicians and to serving the greater Chicago community through music.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Programs Concerts with Riccardo Muti………………………...... 5 Muti and the CSO on Tour…………………..………… 7 Celebrating ………………..……….. 7 Beethoven’s Piano Concertos………………...... 8 Chicago Symphony Chorus…………………………… 8 NEW! Wheaton College series……………………….. 9 Mead Composers-in-Residence and MusicNOW….. 9 World Premieres ……….…………………..…………. 10 First Performances …………………………………… 10 Debuts …………………………………………………. 11 Returning Guest Conductors………………………… 12 Returning Guest Artists………………………………. 15 CSO at the Movies……………………………………. 16 CSO Radio……………………………………………... 16

Symphony Center Presents Piano Series……………………………………………..16 Chamber Music …………………………………………18 Orchestras.………………………………………………18 Special Concerts………………………………………..19 Holiday Programs……………………………………....19

The Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Learning Programs ……………………………………..20 Family and School Concerts…………………………...20 Training Programs and The Civic Orchestra…………22

Subscription and Ticket Information……...... 24

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CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PROGRAMS

CONCERTS WITH RICCARDO MUTI

Riccardo Muti leads 10 weeks of subscription programs with the CSO during the 2016/17 season. In addition, he conducts the annual Symphony Ball gala and the free community concert at the beginning of the season, tour performances, a run-out performance at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and a first-ever appearance with the CSO at Wheaton College as part of the Orchestra’s new three-concert series there. His programs offer wide-ranging repertoire by Samuel Adams, Beethoven, Boito, Brahms, Bruckner, Catalani, Dvořák, Hindemith, Martucci, Mendelssohn, Mussorgsky, Prokofiev, Rossini, Schumann, R. Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Verdi and Wagner, including a number of works never before performed by the CSO.

Regular subscription series programs led by Muti feature Brahms’ complete symphonies over two consecutive weeks; performances of masterworks from the choral repertoire; participation in the CSO’s celebration of Sergei Prokofiev, 125 years after his birth; performances of three of Beethoven’s five piano concertos with Yefim Bronfman, Radu Lupu and Mitsuko Uchida as soloists; a performance of Liszt’s Dante Symphony featuring the women of the Chicago Symphony Chorus; a performance of Martucci’s La canzone dei ricordi featuring renowned American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato in her CSO debut; and a world premiere of a CSO- commissioned work by Mead Composer-in-Residence Samuel Adams.

 Muti opens the CSO’s 2016/17 season with an all-orchestral program including Mussorgsky’s A Night on Bald Mountain; Strauss’ and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7 in E Major. (September 22, 23 and 27)

Muti and the CSO repeat this program in a run-out concert at the University of Illinois’ Krannert Center in Urbana-Champaign. (September 24)

 Mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato makes her CSO debut with Muti leading the CSO’s first performances of Martucci’s La canzone dei ricordi. Opening the concert is another work never before played by the CSO, Catalani’s Contemplazione. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 closes the program. (September 29, 30 and October 1)

 Muti leads CSO Principal Cello John Sharp as soloist in Schumann’s Cello Concerto, on a program that also includes Dvořák’s Husitská Overture, Hindemith’s Concert Music for String Orchestra and Brass and Ravel’s famed orchestration of Mussorgsky’s Pictures from an Exhibition. (October 14 and 18)

 Muti returns in February to conduct two weeks of CSO subscription concerts. The first features pianist Yefim Bronfman as soloist in Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto, part of the survey of all five of Beethoven’s piano concertos in the 2016/17 season. Rossini’s Overture to opens the program, which closes with Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5 (Reformation). (February 16, 17 and 18, 2017)

 The following week, Muti honors the 125th anniversary of Sergei Prokofiev’s birth by leading the CSO’s first-ever performances of Ivan the Terrible. These concerts reunite Muti and the CSO with actor Gérard Depardieu, who last appeared as narrator in performances of Berlioz’s Lelio with the CSO at the start of Muti’s tenure as music director in 2010. Joining the CSO are vocal soloists Sasha Cooke (mezzo-

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soprano) and Mikhail Petrenko (bass), the Chicago Symphony Chorus, prepared by and Chicago Children’s Choir, prepared by Josephine Lee. (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

 In March, Muti conducts the world premiere of Mead Composer-in-Residence Samuel Adams’ first CSO-commissioned work for full orchestra. The program also includes Rossini’s Overture to di seta and Schumann’s Fourth Symphony, as well as pianist Mitsuko Uchida as soloist in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3. This program is also featured in a March 17 concert that takes place at Edman Memorial Chapel at Wheaton College, as part of the CSO’s new series at the west suburban venue. (March 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21, 2017)

 Muti’s spring residency includes three weeks of programs, beginning with Beethoven’s Fifth Piano Concerto (Emperor) with Radu Lupu as soloist. The second half features Liszt’s Dante Symphony, with the women of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, prepared by Duain Wolfe. (April 27, 28 and 29, 2017)

 A cycle of Brahms’ symphonies follows over two weeks, with Muti leading Nos. 1 and 2 on one program (May 4, 5, 6 and 9, 2017) and Nos. 3 and 4 the following week. (May 11, 12 and 13, 2017)

 Muti’s salute to Verdi and Italian opera repertoire closes the 2016/17 season with four performances that feature the CSO with bass Riccardo Zanellato, the Chicago Symphony Chorus, prepared by Duain Wolfe and the Chicago Children’s Choir, prepared by Josephine Lee. The program includes Verdi’s Overtures to Nabucco and I vespri siciliani; the aria “Gli arredi festivi,” and chorus “Va, pensiero” from Nabucco; the Anvil Chorus from Il trovatore; and “Patria oppressa” from Macbeth; as well as Puccini’s Intermezzo to Act 3 of Manon Lescaut; Mascagni’s Intermezzo from Cavalleria rusticana; and the first- ever performance by the CSO of Arrigo Boito’s Prologue to Mefistofele. (June 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

In addition, Muti conducts two one-night-only special concerts:

 Continuing the tradition of performing a free concert for the community at the beginning of the season, Muti and the CSO return to the Apostolic Church of God (6320 S. Dorchester) on Chicago’s south side, where they last performed in 2011. An all-Beethoven program is featured, including his Fifth Symphony. This performance is free and open to the public. (October 13)

 Celebrating the anniversary of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s first concert (October 16, 1891) to conclude the 125th anniversary season, Muti leads the annual gala fundraising concert, Symphony Ball, complete with a preconcert reception and dinner and dancing following the performance. Daniil Trifonov is the soloist in Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, on a program that recreates the CSO’s very first program performed 125 years ago, including music by Wagner, Dvořák and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. (October 15)

The CSO’s music director position is endowed in perpetuity by a generous gift from the Zell Family Foundation.

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MUTI AND THE CSO ON TOUR

Muti leads the CSO in a two-week, 11-concert tour to Europe in January 2017, marking their fifth trip to Europe together. Program details, cities and venues will be announced at a later date.

Muti conducts the CSO in a one-night-only run-out performance at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign in September. The program includes Mussorgsky’s A Night on Bald Mountain; Strauss’ Don Juan and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7 in E Major. (September 24)

CELEBRATING SERGEI PROKOFIEV

Born in 1891—the same year the Chicago Symphony Orchestra was founded—composer, pianist and conductor Sergei Prokofiev became one of the most notable figures of the 20th century, writing numerous symphonic scores, operas, ballets, concertos and chamber music over the course of his 61 years. In honor of Prokofiev’s 125th anniversary year in 2016, the CSO performs and presents several of his works on CSO subscription concerts throughout the 2016/17 season.

 Muti conducts the CSO’s first-ever performances of Prokofiev’s gripping score from Sergei Eisenstein’s film Ivan the Terrible. Actor Gérard Depardieu is the narrator; mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke and bass Mikhail Petrenko join the CSO, the Chicago Symphony Chorus and Chicago Children’s Choir. To complement these performances, a screening of the classic Eisenstein film will be offered at Symphony Center. Details for the screening to be announced at a later date. (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

 In the fall, guest conductor James Gaffigan highlights music from Prokofiev’s score to the ballet Cinderella on a program with music by Franck and a world premiere of a CSO co-commissioned work by Carl Vine. (October 6, 7 and 8)

 Guest conductor Emmanuel Krivine leads Denis Kozhukin in Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2, on a program that also includes music by Liszt and Dvořák. (November 17, 18, 19 and 22)

 Vadim Gluzman is the soloist in Prokofiev’s No. 1, led by guest conductor Neeme Järvi. Music by Sibelius and Glazunov rounds out this program. (December 8, 9 and 10)

 The following week, conducts a suite from Prokofiev’s ballet score of Romeo and Juliet on a program that also includes works by Stravinsky and Saint-Saëns. (December 15, 16, 17 and 18)

concludes the celebration of Prokofiev with his Symphony No. 5. Glinka’s Overture to Ruslan and Ludmila opens the program, followed by Dvořák’s Cello Concerto with Truls Mørk as soloist. (April 6, 7, 8 and 11, 2017)

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BEETHOVEN’S PIANO CONCERTOS

Beethoven’s genius is on display throughout the 2016/17 season, as the CSO and visiting orchestras traverse his complete piano concertos, with Muti leading three of the five.

 Guest conductor David Afkham leads the first of the Beethoven survey—Piano Concerto No. 1—with soloist Emanuel Ax. Music of Shostakovich completes this program. (October 20, 21 and 22)

 The Symphony Center Presents Orchestras series presents Iván Fischer leading the Budapest Festival Orchestra and soloist Richard Goode in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2. (February 8, 2017)

 Muti leads the three remaining installments of the survey—Piano Concerto No. 4 is performed by Yefim Bronfman, on a program that also features music of Rossini and Mendelssohn. (February 16, 17 and 18, 2017)

Mitsuko Uchida performs Piano Concerto No. 3 with Muti and the CSO on a program that includes music by Rossini, Samuel Adams and Schumann. (March 16, 18, 19 and 21, 2017)

To complete the survey, Radu Lupu performs Piano Concerto No. 5 (Emperor) on a program that also includes Liszt’s Dante Symphony, with Muti leading the CSO and the women of the Chicago Symphony Chorus. (April 27, 28 and 29, 2017)

CHICAGO SYMPHONY CHORUS

The Chicago Symphony Chorus, under the leadership of Chorus Director and Conductor Duain Wolfe, appears with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra three times under the baton of Riccardo Muti during the 2016/17 season, as well as with guest conductors Charles Dutoit, Nicholas Kraemer and Jaap van Zweden. Major choral repertoire includes requiems by Brahms and Fauré and a season-finale program of Italian opera favorites.

 Muti leads the CSO, Chorus, mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke, bass Mikhail Petrenko and narrator Gérard Depardieu in the first-ever CSO performance of Prokofiev’s Ivan the Terrible. These concerts are part of the CSO’s tribute to Sergei Prokofiev. (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

 Muti conducts the women of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, along with the CSO, in Liszt’s Dante Symphony, which is paired with Beethoven’s beloved Emperor Concerto with pianist Radu Lupu as soloist. (April 27, 28 and 29, 2017)

 The Chicago Symphony Chorus performs with Muti, the CSO and the Chicago Children’s Choir in a Verdi celebration—an evening of Italian opera favorites, featuring selections from Nabucco, Il trovatore, Macbeth and I vespri siciliani, as well as music by Puccini, Mascagni and Boito. Bass Riccardo Zanellato is the soloist. (June 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

 The Chorus joins guest conductor Jaap van Zweden and the CSO for three performances of Brahms’ A German , featuring the CSO debuts of soprano Christiane Karg and baritone Michael Nagy. Also on the program are Mozart’s Masonic Funeral Music and Wagner’s Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde. (November 10, 11 and 12)

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 Guest conductor Nicholas Kraemer leads the CSO and Chorus in an all-Handel program, with soprano as soloist. (December 1, 2 and 3)

 Charles Dutoit’s second week with the CSO features Fauré’s Requiem, with the Chicago Symphony Chorus, soprano Chen Reiss and baritone . Also schedule on this program are Wagner’s Good Friday Music from Parsifal and Honegger’s Symphony No. 3 (Liturgique). (April 13, 14 and 15, 2017)

WHEATON COLLEGE SERIES

New in 2016/17, in a continuation of the CSO’s efforts to reach audiences in Chicago’s western suburbs, is a series of three CSO concerts at Wheaton College’s Edman Memorial Chapel in Wheaton, IL. The concerts can be purchased individually or as a series with subscriptions available on January 26, 2016 and single tickets for the individual programs available on August 12, 2016.

 Guest conductor Andrés Orozco-Estrada leads the CSO in a varied program that includes Sibelius’ Violin Concerto, featuring the CSO debut of Baiba Skride as soloist. The program also features Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, Ives’ The Unanswered Question and Strauss’ Also sprach Zarathustra. (October 28)

 Riccardo Muti conducts the first CSO-commissioned work for full orchestra by Mead Composer-in- Residence Samuel Adams on a program that also features Mitsuko Uchida as soloist in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3. Rossini’s Overture to La scala di seta and Schumann’s Fourth Symphony round out the program. (March 17, 2017)

 Guest conductor Christoph von Dohnányi leads the final concert in this series, featuring CSO Concertmaster Robert Chen as soloist in Bartók’s Violin Concerto No. 1 and Arvo Pärt’s Fratres. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral) closes the concert. (April 21, 2017)

MEAD COMPOSERS-IN-RESIDENCE AND MUSICNOW

Samuel Adams and Elizabeth Ogonek begin their second seasons as Mead Composers-in-Residence. Adams’ first CSO-commissioned work for the full orchestra receives its world premiere, with Muti conducting, in March 2017.

Adams and Ogonek continue their programming and curating of the CSOA’s critically hailed, four-concert MusicNOW series. MusicNOW, created in December 1998 to explore today’s contemporary music scene through innovative programs, returns to the for Music and Dance with programs performed by CSO musicians and guest performers.

Highlights of the 2016/17 MusicNOW season include:

 World-premiere commissions as part of the newly-created Ear Taxi Festival which takes place October 5-10, 2016

 The world premiere of a MusicNOW commission from Mead Composer-in-Residence Elizabeth Ogonek

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 Complete 2016/17 programming will be announced in the spring of 2016.

The MusicNOW concert experience includes a short-format program of contemporary music with video introductions by featured composers and special lighting and visual elements, as well as a chance for musicians, composers and the audience to mingle at post-concert receptions.

MusicNOW concerts in 2016/17 will take place on four Mondays: October 10, as part of the Ear Taxi Festival; November 21; and April 3 and May 22, 2017.

MusicNOW receives funding through a leadership challenge grant from the Irving Harris Foundation, Joan W. Harris. Major support is provided by Cindy Sargent and the Sally Mead Hands Foundation.

WORLD PREMIERES

The CSO gives the world premiere performances of four new works during the course of the 2016/17 season:

 Australian composer Carl Vine’s Five Hallucinations for Trombone and Orchestra was co- commissioned by the CSO and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The CSO gives the premiere in subscription performances featuring CSO trombone Michael Mulcahy as soloist, led by guest conductor James Gaffigan. (October 6, 7 and 8) Commissioned by the Edward F. Schmidt Family Commissioning Fund.

 Esa-Pekka Salonen’s Cello Concerto—a co-commission between the CSO, the , the and the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg—receives its world premiere by CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma in three performances with the composer conducting. (March 9, 10 and 11, 2017) Commissioned by the Mrs. Harold C. Smith Fund for new music.

 CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Samuel Adams has his first CSO-commissioned work performed by Muti and the Orchestra in March. (March 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21, 2017) Commissioned by the Louise Durham Mead Fund.

 American composer Melinda Wagner’s Proceed, Moon, a CSO commission, is premiered under guest conductor Susanna Mälkki. (June 15, 16 and 17, 2017)

FIRST PERFORMANCES

In addition to world premieres, the CSO performs 18 works for the first time during the 2016/17 season:

ARIOSTI Questi ceppi from La fede ne’ tradimenti (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) BOITO Prologue to Mefistofele (June 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2017) CATALANI Contemplazione (September 29, 30 and October 1) CORELLI Concerto Grosso in F Major, Op. 6, No. 12 (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) GIACOMELLI Sposa son disprezzata from La Merope (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017)

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HANDEL Laudate pueri Dominum (Psalm 112), HWV 237 (December 1, 2 and 3) HANDEL Silete venti, HWV 242 (December 1, 2 and 3) J. ADAMS Scheherazade.2 (March 2, 4 and 7, 2017) J. ADAMS Slonimsky’s Earbox (March 9, 10 and 11, 2017) MARTUCCI La canzone dei ricordi (September 29, 30 and October 1) PROKOFIEV Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116 (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017) TCHAIKOVSKY Act 2 from The Sleeping Beauty (February 3 and 4, 2017) VERACINI Già presso al termine from Adriano in Siria (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) VIVALDI Agitata da due venti from Griselda (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) VIVALDI Concerto in D Major for Violin, Strings, and Continuo, RV 222 (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) VIVALDI Concerto in E Major for Violin and Orchestra, RV 271 (L’amoroso) (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) VIVALDI Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 4, No. 4, RV 357 (La Stravaganza) (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017) WALTON Orb and Sceptre (February 3 and 4, 2017)

DEBUTS

Twelve guest artists make debuts with the CSO during the 2016/17 season:

 Conductor and violinist Fabio Biondi, founder of , an internationally renowned ensemble of Italian performers specializing in music of the baroque period, makes his CSO debut as both soloist and conductor. His all-Italian baroque program features Corelli’s Concerto grosso in D Major, and eight additional works by Vivaldi, Giacomelli, Ariosti, Veracini and Corelli that the CSO will perform for the first time. Biondi and the CSO are joined by mezzo-soprano as soloist. (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017)

 Mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly is a Fellow of the Royal College of Music where she studied piano and voice. She has appeared on the world’s greatest opera stages, including the , La Scala and the Royal Opera, Covent Garden, among others. She makes her CSO debut with the Orchestra’s former principal guest conductor, , and tenor Stephen Gould, in Mahler’s’ . (March 30, 31 and April 1, 2017)

 Winner of the 2012 Grammy® Award for Best Classical Vocal Solo, Kansas-born mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato makes her debut with Riccardo Muti in Martucci’s La canzone dei ricordi—also marking the first time the CSO has performed the work. Completing this program are Catalani’s Contemplazione and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7. (September 29, 30 and October 1)

 Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša, who is Chief Conductor Designate of the Bamberg Symphony and Permanent Guest Conductor of the Czech Philharmonic, makes his debut with the CSO in a performance of Smetana’s six symphonic poems of Má vlast. (May 18, 19 and 20, 2017)

 Soprano Christiane Karg makes her CSO debut with guest conductor Jaap van Zweden, baritone Michael Nagy and the Chicago Symphony Chorus in Brahms’ A German Requiem. Karg made her debut at the in 2006, and returned to work with Riccardo Muti there as Amor in Orfeo ed Euridice. She performs regularly with the Theater an der Wien and has given recitals at many of Europe’s most noted concert halls. (November 10, 11 and 12)

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 Conductor Emmanuel Krivine, the new Principal Guest Conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, marks his CSO debut with a program of music by Liszt, Dvořák and Prokofiev. Denis Kozhukhin is the soloist in Prokofiev’s Piano Concert No. 2. (November 17, 18, 1 9 and 22)

 Soprano Regula Mühlemann, a native of Lucerne, , makes her and CSO debut in arias by Mozart, with guest conductor Manfred Honeck. Mühlemann studied at the Conservatory of Lucerne, and has been in demand for concert appearances and opera productions since completing her master studies there in 2012. (June 8, 9, 10 and 13, 2017)

 Baritone Michael Nagy makes his CSO debut with guest conductor Jaap van Zweden, soprano Christiane Karg, and the Chicago Symphony Chorus in Brahms’ A German Requiem. A rising star in Europe, Nagy has appeared regularly with the Opera as well as with the Deutsche Oper in Berlin and the in . (November 10, 11 and 12)

 Conductor Andrés Orozco-Estrada, music director of the , Chief Conductor of the Frankfurt Radio Symphony and Principal Guest Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, makes his CSO debut in the 2016/17 season. His program features the CSO debut of Baiba Skride as soloist in Sibelius’ Violin Concerto, and a varied selection of works by Kodály, Ives and Strauss. (October 27, 28, 29 and 30)

 Soprano Chen Reiss, makes her CSO debut in Fauré’s Requiem led by Charles Dutoit. A native of , Reiss was invited to sing for for the 2014 Christmas Mass, which was broadcast worldwide. She has performed with major orchestras around the world under conductors including Sir , , James Levine and Franz Welser-Möst. Her recent opera appearances include those at the State Opera, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino and Israeli State Opera.

 Latvian violinist Baiba Skride makes her CSO debut performing Sibelius’ Violin Concerto under the leadership of guest conductor Andrés Orozco-Estrada. Skride has performed with an impressive list of orchestras around the world, including the Berlin and London Philharmonics, the Orchestre de Paris and the NHK Symphony, and is currently the Artist in Residence with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. (October 27, 28, 29 and 30)

 Chief Conductor of the Orchestra Sinfonica Nazionale della RAI, Torino, Juraj Valčuha makes his CSO debut conducting a varied program of music by Haydn, Johann Strauss, Jr. and , as well as Szymanowski’s Violin Concerto with as soloist. (June 1, 3 and 4, 2017)

RETURNING GUEST CONDUCTORS

Guest conductors returning to the CSO podium in 2016/17 include:

 David Afkham Afkham leads the CSO and Emanuel Ax in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, the first of the season- long survey of his five piano concertos. Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10 is also featured on his program. These concerts mark Afkham’s subscription debut with the CSO. (October 20, 21 and 22)

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 Christoph von Dohnányi Dohnányi conducts a varied program of music by Pärt, Bartók and Beethoven. CSO Concertmaster Robert Chen is soloist in Bartók’s Violin Concerto No. 1 and Pärt’s Fratres. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral) rounds out the program. (April 20, 21, 22 and 23, 2017)

 Charles Dutoit Dutoit returns to the CSO podium to conduct two weeks of programs in the spring. The first week includes Glinka’s Overture to Ruslan and Ludmila, Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5 and Dvořák’s Cello Concerto with Truls Mørk as soloist. (April 6, 7, 8 and 11, 2017)

Dutoit’s second week features Fauré’s Requiem with the CSO, Chicago Symphony Chorus, soprano Chen Reiss and baritone Matthias Goerne. The first half of the concert includes Wagner’s Good Friday Music from Parsifal and Honegger’s Symphony No. 3 (Liturgique). (April 13, 14 and 15, 2017)

 James Gaffigan Gaffigan returns to the CSO in October 2016 to lead the world premiere of Australian composer Carl Vine’s Five Hallucinations for Trombone and Orchestra, which was co-commissioned by the CSO and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. CSO trombone Michael Mulcahy is the featured soloist. Also on this program are Franck’s Le chasseur maudit and, as part of the celebration of Prokofiev, selections from his ballet score to Cinderella. (October 6, 7 and 8)

 Bernard Haitink The CSO’s former Principal Conductor leads Mahler’s Das Lied von der Erde, with mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly, in her CSO debut, and tenor Stephen Gould. Haydn’s Symphony No. 60 (Il distratto) opens the program. (March 30, 31 and April 1, 2017)

 Manfred Honeck An all-Mozart program is featured when Honeck returns to the Orchestra Hall stage. Selected arias highlight the CSO debut of soprano Regula Mühlemann, while performs Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27, K. 595. The Overture to and Symphony No. 35 (Haffner) complete this program. (June 8, 9, 10 and 13, 2017)

 Neeme Järvi Music by Jean Sibelius is the focus of Järvi’s subscription week, which includes both his Suite from Karelia and Symphony No. 5. Vadim Gluzman is the soloist in Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1; Glazunov’s Concert Waltz No. 1 opens the program. (December 8, 9 and 10)

 Nicholas Kraemer Kraemer returns to the CSO podium to lead the CSO, Chicago Symphony Chorus and soprano Amanda Forsythe in six works by Handel, including two that receive their first-ever performances by the CSO: Silete venti and Laudate pueri Dominum (Psalm 112). Also included are the Music for the Royal Fireworks, Zadok the Priest, and others. (December 1, 2 and 3)

 James Levine

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Levine makes his long-awaited subscription concert debut with the CSO, having conducted the Orchestra previously at the , when he served as Music Director (1973-1993), and in special concerts in Orchestra Hall. His 2016/17 program opens with Schoenberg’s Five Pieces for Orchestra, and continues with Stravinsky’s Song of the Nightingale. Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique closes his program. (November 3, 4, 5 and 8)

 Jesús López Cobos López-Cobos returns to the CSO—after an absence of more than 30 years—for a week of concerts featuring a program that includes Gershwin’s Concerto in F, Turina’s Danzas fantásticas and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 6. (May 25, 27 and 30, 2017)

 Susanna Mälkki Mälkki’s program features the world premiere of Melinda Wagner’s CSO-commissioned work, Proceed, Moon, as well as the subscription series return of saxophonist Branford Marsalis in two works: Fauré’s Pavane, arranged for Soprano Saxophone and John Williams’ Escapades from the score to the film Catch Me if You Can. Music by Bizet and Debussy are also scheduled. (June 15, 16 and 17, 2017)

 Esa-Pekka Salonen Salonen returns for two weeks of programs in 2016/17. Both weeks include a work by American composer John Adams, who turns 70 in 2017. The first week’s program features Adams’ Scheherazade.2, a dramatic symphony for violin and orchestra with Leila Josefowicz—who performed the world premiere of the piece—as soloist. Debussy’s Prelude to The Afternoon of a Faun and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring round out the program. (March 2, 4 and 7, 2017)

Salonen’s second program features the world premiere of one of his own works—a cello concerto— which was co-commissioned by the CSO, the New York Philharmonic, the Barbican Centre and the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg. CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma is soloist. Adams’ Slonimsky’s Earbox receives its first-ever performance by the CSO on this program, which concludes with the 1947 version of Stravinsky’s Petrushka. (March 9, 10 and 11, 2017)

 Michael Tilson Thomas Tilson Thomas and the CSO are joined by Gautier Capuçon for Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1. Ballet music of Stravinsky and Prokofiev complete the program: Scènes de ballet and Suite from Romeo and Juliet, respectively. (December 15, 16, 17 and 18)

 Bramwell Tovey Tovey returns to the CSO for his subscription series debut in 2016/17, having previously led the Orchestra at the Ravinia Festival. His program includes music of his countrymen on the first half— Walton’s Orb and Sceptre, in its first performance by the CSO, and Britten’s The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra—and a second half devoted to Act 2 from Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty, which also marks the first time the CSO has performed Act 2 in its entirety. (February 3 and 4, 2017)

 Jaap van Zweden Van Zweden leads the Orchestra and Chicago Symphony Chorus in a week of programs that feature Brahms’ A German Requiem, with the CSO debuts of soprano Christiane Karg and baritone Michael Nagy. The program’s first half includes Mozart’s Masonic Funeral Music, K. 479a and Wagner’s Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde. (November 10, 11 and 12)

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RETURNING GUEST ARTISTS

Guest artists returning to perform with the CSO during the 2016/17 season’s subscription series include:

Piano  Emanuel Ax (October 20, 21 and 22)  Yefim Bronfman (February 16, 17 and 18, 2017)  Paul Lewis (June 1, 3 and 4, 2017)  Radu Lupu (April 27, 28 and 29, 2017)  Mitsuko Uchida (March 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21, 2017)

Violin  Robert Chen, CSO Concertmaster (April 20, 21, 22 and 23, 2017)  Vadim Gluzman (December 8, 9 and 10)  Leila Josefowicz (March 2, 4 and 7, 2017)  Christian Tetzlaff (June 1, 3 and 4, 2017)

Cello  Gautier Capuçon (December 15, 16, 17 and 18)  Yo-Yo Ma, CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant (March 9, 10 and 11, 2017)  Truls Mørk (April 6, 7, 8 and 11, 2017)  John Sharp (October 14 and 18)

Trombone  Michael Mulcahy, CSO Second Trombone (October 6, 7 and 8)

Saxophone  Branford Marsalis (June 15, 16 and 17, 2017)

Voice  Sasha Cooke, mezzo-soprano (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)  Stephen Gould, tenor (March 30, 31 and April 1, 2017)  Amanda Forsythe, soprano (December 1, 2 and 3)  Vivica Genaux, mezzo-soprano (February 9, 10 and 11, 2017)  Matthias Goerne, baritone (April 13, 14 and 15, 2017)  Mikhail Petrenko, bass (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)  Riccardo Zanellato, bass (June 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

Choirs  Chicago Children’s Choir, Josephine Lee, artistic director (June 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

Narrator  Gérard Depardieu (February 23, 24 and 25, 2017)

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CSO AT THE MOVIES

CSO at the Movies offers a unique opportunity to hear live performances of great film scores played by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Performances include feature films projected above the stage. This season, presentations take place on November 25, 2016 and March 3 and May 26, 2017.

 E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial The CSO brings John Williams’ famous music to life in its first performance of the complete score to accompany this contemporary classic film on Friday, November 25 in a CSO at the Movies series subscription performance; two additional non-subscription performances take place on Saturday and Sunday, November 26 and 27, at 8 p.m. and 3 p.m. respectively.

Additional programs will be announced at a later date.

CSO RADIO

The weekly CSO Radio Broadcast Series is syndicated nationally to more than 300 radio stations, reaching over 250,000 listeners each week nationwide via the WFMT Radio Network. In 2015, on-demand streaming led to more than 550,000 plays of music and interviews from CSO Radio programs.

With commentary designed to illustrate the stories of the music and to provide insight into the themes of the CSO’s concert season, the series has offered a distinctive approach to radio since 2007. The broadcasts include recorded concert performances by the CSO; produced segments featuring interviews with musicians of the Orchestra, guest artists and composers; and explorations of the CSO’s rich catalog of commercial recordings.

A strong online presence at cso.org/soundsandstories gives music lovers access to additional content, including full-length interviews and commentary, program notes and biographical information.

The series is heard locally on 98.7 WFMT in Chicago on Sunday afternoons at 1 p.m. For other cities, please check local listings.

SYMPHONY CENTER PRESENTS

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association (CSOA) offers a range of programs highlighting the exceptional artistry of today’s top musicians through Symphony Center Presents (SCP). As Chicago’s premier presenter of internationally-acclaimed artists and ensembles, SCP offers multiple series—Piano, Chamber Music, Orchestras and Jazz, as well as Special Concerts.

SYMPHONY CENTER PRESENTS PIANO The Symphony Center Presents (SCP) Piano series celebrates keyboard artistry at the highest level in 10 Sunday afternoon concerts each season. Legendary keyboard masters and the next generation of virtuosos perform repertoire from every era, baroque to contemporary. Highlights of the 2016/17 series include the

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Symphony Center debut of young British pianist Benjamin Grosvenor and young Russian-German pianist Igor Levit, return appearances for Rudolf Buchbinder, Jeremy Denk and Daniil Trifonov and a powerful two-piano program featuring pianists Leif Ove Andsnes and Marc-André Hamelin.  After his critically-acclaimed solo appearances with the CSO and Muti, renowned pianist Rudolf Buchbinder returns to Symphony Center for a program that includes J. S. Bach’s English Suite No. 3 in G Minor, BWV 808. Renowned for his meticulous and elegant interpretations of core keyboard repertoire, Buchbinder also performs works by Schubert and Beethoven. (October 23) The appearance of Rudolph Buchbinder is generously sponsored by JS Charitable Trust.  American pianist and winner of ’s 2014 Instrumentalist of the Year award Jeremy Denk returns to the SCP Piano series. (November 13)

 One of today’s most exciting young pianists, Benjamin Grosvenor makes his Symphony Center debut in an eclectic program that features selections by Beethoven, Scriabin and Granados. Grosvenor came to international attention in 2004 after winning the BBC Young Musician Competition at the age of 11. His 2011 appearance as the featured soloist at the First Night of the BBC Proms, quickly launched an international career. His recent recording, Dances, was also chosen for the 2015 BBC Music Magazine Instrumental Award. (February 19, 2017)

 Winner of both the BBC Music Magazine and Royal Philharmonic Society newcomer awards in 2014, Russian-German pianist sensation Igor Levit makes his Symphony Center and Chicago debut in this appearance. His performance of the late Beethoven sonatas on his 2013 debut recording was hailed by as “playing of technical brilliance, tonal allure [and] intellectual drive.” (March 12, 2017)

 Since coming to international attention after winning the 2011 Tchaikovsky Competition, Daniil Trifonov has gone on to make solo appearances with the London Symphony, New York Philharmonic and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, as well as critically acclaimed recital appearances at , and the Berlin Philharmonie. He returns to the SCP Piano series with a program of works by Schumann, Shostakovich and Stravinsky. (March 26, 2017)

 Internationally acclaimed pianist Paul Lewis has garnered recognition for his fresh interpretations of the major keyboard works of Beethoven and Schubert. He returns to the SCP Piano series with a program of works by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin and Weber. (April 9, 2017)

 Virtuoso pianists Leif Ove Andsnes and Marc-André Hamelin join forces for a concert of duo-piano music. The program includes pieces by Mozart and Debussy, as well as a riveting arrangement of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. (April 30, 2017)

 Known for his elegant interpretations of keyboard masterworks, pianist returns to the SCP Piano series in May. (May 7, 2017)

 Legendary pianist has become a highlight of the SCP Piano series. Pollini returns in the 2016/17 season. (May 28, 2017)

returns to the SCP Piano series for the first time since 2012 with a program that includes the Brahms No. 2 in F-sharp Minor and Liszt‘s virtuosic masterwork, Transcendental Etudes. (June 11, 2017)

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SYMPHONY CENTER PRESENTS CHAMBER MUSIC The Symphony Center Presents (SCP) Chamber Music series brings today’s top artists and chamber ensembles to Orchestra Hall for intimate and spirited performances in four programs each season. The 2016/17 series features the much-anticipated return of violinist Gidon Kremer and his Kremerata Baltica, as well as a special appearance by Yo-Yo Ma, Chris Thile and Edgar Meyer in a new All-Bach project.  Violinist has captivated audiences around the world in solo and recital performances. The three-time Grammy® Award–winning artist is widely known for her innovative recording projects and her passion for new music. (November 1)

 Under the direction of renowned violinist Gidon Kremer, Kremerata Baltica is recognized as one of today’s top chamber music ensembles. The ensemble celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2017, having toured 50 countries and released more than 25 recordings to date. Kremer, who celebrates his 70th Birthday in 2017, leads the ensemble in a program including Astor Piazzolla’s The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires, as well as the music of contemporary composers Philip Glass, Giya Kancheli and Alexander Raskatov. (February 1, 2017)

 Distinguished violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter and her longtime collaborator, pianist Lambert Orkis, return to Symphony Center for a program of works by Mozart, Respighi, Saint-Saëns and American composer Sebastian Currier. (March 29, 2017)

 CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma, Chris Thile (mandolin), and Edgar Meyer (bass) unite once again for an invigorating all-Bach program. The acclaimed trio, who famously collaborated on the 2011 Grammy® Award–winning album The Goat Rodeo Sessions, perform selections and arrangements from J.S. Bach’s The Art of Fugue, The Well-Tempered Clavier and several of the composer’s trio sonatas. (April 24, 2017)

SYMPHONY CENTER PRESENTS ORCHESTRAS The Symphony Center Presents (SCP) Orchestras series honors a long-standing tradition of welcoming the world’s finest orchestras to Orchestra Hall. In 2016/17, the three-concert series welcomes the , Budapest Festival Orchestra and St. Petersburg Philharmonic.

 The Cleveland Orchestra, led by its acclaimed music director Franz Welser-Möst, returns to the SCP Orchestra series for the first time since 2002 with a stirring program of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. (January 21, 2017)

 The Budapest Festival Orchestra performs an all-Beethoven program led by its dynamic music director Iván Fischer. The performance includes Beethoven’s Symphonies Nos. 1 and 5 and features Richard Goode as soloist in Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto, part of the complete Beethoven piano concertos at Symphony Center in the 2016/17 season. (February 8, 2017)

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 With an illustrious performance history at Symphony Center that covers several decades, the St. Petersburg Philharmonic returns under the direction of iconic conductor Yuri Temirkanov. Nicolai Lugansky joins the orchestra for Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 on a program that also features Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony. (March 5, 2017)

SPECIAL CONCERTS During the 2016/17 season, the CSO and Symphony Center Presents offer an array of non-subscription special concerts that showcase today’s internationally renowned soloists and ensembles in a range of genres— classical, world, folk and jazz—as well as unique holiday programs.

 Ambassadors of Mexico’s rich musical heritage, the acclaimed Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán returns for its annual celebration of Mariachi music and traditions. (October 2)

 In its annual winter concert, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass returns with a powerful program of brass ensemble favorites and special arrangements. (December 14)

 Kodo shares the power of traditional Japanese Taiko drumming in its all-new program, DADAN 2017. Recognized for a unique, multi-sensory experience that has thrilled audiences around the world, Kodo captures the imagination of audiences of all ages. (February 26, 2017)

 Renowned sitar player Anoushka Shankar, daughter of the legendary Ravi Shankar, makes her Symphony Center solo debut performing selections from her 2015 album Home. (March 25, 2017)

HOLIDAY PROGRAMS

 Called the “world’s reigning male chorus” by The New Yorker, the Grammy® Award–winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer makes their annual visit to Chicago with a program of familiar and new seasonal pieces in a cappella arrangements. (December 6 and 7. Note location: Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut, Chicago)

 The classic Christmas film It’s a Wonderful Life comes to the big screen at Symphony Center for three special presentations. Members of the CSO led by conductor Justin Freer perform the score live to accompany the timeless, heartwarming film. (December 9, 10 and 11)

 Merry, Merry Chicago! returns to Symphony Center for a holiday program highlighting festive music of the season performed by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and special guest artists. (December 16, 17, 21, 22, and 23)

 Returning for its annual Symphony Center appearance, the Vienna Boys Choir performs a festive program of traditional and contemporary vocal selections entitled Christmas in Vienna. (December 20)

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THE NEGAUNEE MUSIC INSTITUTE AT THE CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Negaunee Music Institute (NMI) at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra shares the extraordinary musical resources of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to create connections to music for individuals and communities across Chicago and around the world. Under the visionary leadership of CSO Music Director Riccardo Muti and Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma, the Negaunee Music Institute’s Learning and Training Programs focus on artistic excellence, broad access, deep and enduring impact, as well as mentorship and responsiveness and reach more than 200,000 people each year.

Building on the CSO’s rich history of education and community engagement that originated in the early part of the 20th century, the Institute was created in 2008 as an umbrella for the CSO’s education and engagement programs. Originally called the Institute for Access, Learning and Training, it was renamed in 2014 after the CSO received a generous gift from the Negaunee Foundation that endows the Institute in perpetuity.

Each year, musicians of the CSO participate in a variety of the Institute’s programs making direct connections with students, young musicians, and community members. In addition to their performances at CSO community concerts and School and Family Concerts, CSO Ensembles offer performances at approximately 30 sites each season, including CPS schools as part of the Institute’s new Ignite and Connect programs and community sites connected to the Adventures in Music program. CSO Ensembles also serve as coaches for the musicians of the Civic Orchestra; work with young musicians at the Chicago Youth in Music Festival; lead master classes during the Orchestra’s domestic and international tours and accompany Music Director Riccardo Muti for annual, interactive recitals for at-risk and incarcerated youth at Illinois Youth Center facilities.

LEARNING PROGRAMS OF THE NEGAUNEE MUSIC INSTITUTE

The Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO presents opportunities for people of all ages with diverse backgrounds in music to actively participate in the life of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The centerpiece of the Learning Programs is a series of age appropriate CSO concerts for school and family audiences that are supported by a suite of school and community partnerships, curricular and preparatory resources, and other activities. Through the School and Family concerts, the Negaunee Music Institute offers 40 performances each year that reach 150 schools and 40,000 audience members. Learning Programs also include an annual series of CSO open rehearsals for invited school and community groups. The Institute’s newest learning program initiatives were launched in September 2015 and include two partnership programs with CPS schools—Ignite and Connect—that share the resources of the CSO with seven schools through teacher professional development, collaboratively designed musical instruction, in-school performances and workshops, as well as support for the development of a customized arts plan in several of the participating schools.

FAMILY AND SCHOOL CONCERTS

A core part of the Institute’s Learning Programs, these concerts for families and school classes are geared specifically to various age groups: ages 3 to 5, ages 5 and up, grades K through 3 and grades 4 and above. For the 2016/17 season, all of the CSO School and Family Concerts explore and emphasize the theme of courage.

Once Upon a Symphony, for Children Ages 3 to 5 In the 2016/17 season, the Institute presents two Once Upon a Symphony programs—The Three Little Pigs and the premiere of The Bremen Town Musicians. Featuring a small ensemble of CSO musicians and a storyteller,

20 each Once Upon a Symphony program is designed especially for children ages 3 to 5 with age-appropriate music, storytelling, video projections, activities, sets and costumes that give young children a fun introduction to classical music and encourage them to make music at home. The Once Upon a Symphony concert experience for families also includes preconcert activities designed in partnership with music education faculty from the DePaul University School of Music and an opportunity to meet the musicians after the performance. Once Upon a Symphony programs are presented on Saturdays for families with children ages 3 to 5 and on some corresponding Mondays for preschool, daycare and Head Start audiences.

Family Matinees (Saturdays), for Children Ages 5 and Up During the 2016/17 season, the three concert programs in the Family Matinee series explore the stories and the sounds of courage. Defined as the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous, courage is an important social and emotional skill that is often on display in orchestral music. Each program, presented in an engaging format, showcases music that depicts acts of courage, aiming to ignite the imagination of young listeners and inspire them to confront obstacles they may encounter in the pursuit of their dreams.

Symphonic Superheroes! Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra share their own stories of courage that helped them make the impressive transformation from a “normal musician” into a superhero of the CSO. Led by guest conductor Tania Miller and featuring selections from Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony, Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Mussorgsky’s Pictures from an Exhibition, this program highlights the courageous qualities of the CSO’s spirited strings, valiant woodwinds, bravura brass and plucky percussion. (November 5)

Don Quixote Cervantes’ knight errant had unshakeable courage that allowed him to pursue his dreams. The whimsical story of one of literature’s great characters comes to life in this unique program. Selections from Don Quixote, Strauss’ famous tone poem are performed by the CSO led by guest conductor Edwin Outwater, are interspersed with short narratives inspired by the famous novel. (February 11, 2017)

Peter and the Wolf This classic story tells an inspiring tale of a boy who risks his safety to protect his friends. Prokofiev’s famous score is paired with Suppe’s Light Cavalry Overture performed by Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra who are joined on stage by guests from the Magic Circle Mime Company. The guest conductor for this program is Matthew Aucoin, Sir Conducting Apprentice to the CSO (2013-2015). (April 29, 2017)

School Concerts (Fridays), for Children Grades K-3 and 4-12 The Institute’s School Concerts for student groups in grades K-3 offer weekday performances of each of the Family Matinee programs in the 2016/17 season. These take place on the Friday preceding each Family Matinee concert, on November 4, 2016; February 10 and April 28, 2017.

For grades 4-12, the Institute presents two performances each on February 9 & 10, 2017 of a program that explores the lives and music of composers who had the courage to develop new sounds and forms in their music.

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TRAINING PROGRAMS AND THE CIVIC ORCHESTRA OF CHICAGO

The Training Programs of the Institute offer a similarly diverse array of opportunities including those available through the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Percussion Scholarship Program, Chicago Youth in Music Festival, the Crain-Maling Youth Auditions, Sir Georg Solti Conducting Apprenticeship and programs for At-Risk and Incarcerated Youth.

Recent initiatives in the Training programs of the Institute include the annual, day-long Bach Marathon inspired by Yo-Yo Ma, the CSO’s Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant and performed in community venues across the city by the musicians of the Civic Orchestra.

The Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association’s prestigious training ensemble for emerging professional musicians, is the only one of its kind affiliated with a major American orchestra. Founded in 1919 by then-Music Director Frederick Stock, the Civic Orchestra is a signature program of the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

This unique alliance, propelled by an expansive vision, has enabled the Civic Orchestra to produce exceptional musical experiences that engage people of all ages and backgrounds leading to the development of an annual concert schedule of more than 30 performances that reach 14,000 audiences members. The 90 young professional musicians of the Civic Orchestra also benefit from the guidance of a world-class faculty that includes the CSO’s Music Director Riccardo Muti, Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma, musicians of the CSO and the many guest artists and conductors who visit Symphony Center each season.

The Civic’s 2016/17 season includes a full roster of free performances at Symphony Center as well as its annual community concert at the South Shore Cultural Center, plus new community locations to be announced at a later date. It also includes the free Civic Chamber Music Series presented at sites including the National Museum of Mexican Art and Zhou B Art Center, as well as Chicago Park District locations across the city. The roster of conductors and programs will be announced at a later date.

In addition to the critically acclaimed live concerts at Symphony Center, Civic Orchestra performances can be heard locally on WFMT (98.7 FM) and in nationally syndicated radio broadcasts on 160 broadcast outlets in 30 states. These are supported by a generous gift from the Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation.

Select members of the Civic Orchestra are chosen as Civic Fellows who are immersed in additional rigorous training that enhances their participation in the full orchestra. The two-year Civic Fellowship program, introduced in 2013/14 and inspired by the vision of CSO Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant Yo-Yo Ma, has been adopted as a core initiative of the Civic Orchestra. Following a successful set of pilot seasons, in 2016/17 the Civic Orchestra will increase the number of Civic Fellows from eight to seventeen. Through an array of experiences designed to build and diversify creative and professional skills, the fellowship program empowers its participants to realize their full potential as artistically excellent, collaborative, civically-engaged, and entrepreneurial musicians.

Established in 1995, the Percussion Scholarship Program recently celebrated its 20th anniversary during the 2014/15 season. The program offers intensive, individual, weekly and year-round percussion instruction for young musicians on a full scholarship basis. Participating students—all of whom are Chicago residents in grades 4 through 12—are selected for the group through a rigorous application and personal interview process, by which 5- 10 new students are identified annually. As an ensemble, the Percussion Scholarship Group has had numerous compositions arranged especially for it by nationally known artists. The group performs twice a year in Buntrock

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Hall at Symphony Center and has appeared on WTTW, on WGN and WFMT radio, on NPR's “From the Top” and as soloists with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as part of CSO Youth Concerts, the CSO Family Matinee Series and Welcome Yule! concerts, as well as the Chicago Youth in Music Festival. Graduates of the Percussion Scholarship Program have gone on to attend top-tier universities and music conservatories, later assuming notable careers within and outside of music.

The Chicago Youth in Music Festival is a celebration of young musicians from across the city and suburbs. Presented in partnership with Greater Chicago’s leading community music schools and youth orchestra programs, the Festival creates connections to the CSO and Civic Orchestra that support and inspire young musicians who are passionate about classical music. While each Festival is unique, the flagship event is an open rehearsal of the Festival Orchestra—an ensemble composed of the most advanced players from Chicago-area community music schools and youth orchestras—led by CSO Music Director Riccardo Muti.

Presented by the League of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, the Crain-Maling CSO Youth Auditions are held annually for young musicians between the ages of 14 and 17 who are residents of Illinois. Each year, one outstanding soloist is selected via audition to perform with the CSO. The auditions also make additional awards of scholarships to music camps for select participants. A three-year rotation schedule determines the eligible instruments for each competition: strings, piano and woodwinds/brass/percussion. Auditions in the 2016/17 season will be open to strings.

Launched by Riccardo Muti during his inaugural season as CSO Music Director, the biennial Sir Georg Solti Conducting Apprenticeship offers one promising conductor two years of rare access to and guidance from an honored tradition of musical leadership. Building on the legacy of the late Sir Georg Solti (CSO Music Director 1969-1991) and his work in opera, Maestro Muti identifies and mentors young conductors who can not only lead an orchestra and command a broad repertoire but also skillfully coach artists from the piano as well. In September 2015, German-born conductor Erina Yashima was announced as the next Solti Conducting Apprentice. Yashima begins her two-year apprenticeship in February 2016 and will spend at least 10 weeks a year studying and assisting Riccardo Muti in Chicago during his residencies with the CSO each season. In addition, the Apprenticeship also offers an opportunity for close work with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the CSO’s training orchestra for young professional musicians, including the opportunity to lead several rehearsals and a performance with the Civic Orchestra each year.

The Institute’s ongoing musical projects for At-Risk and Incarcerated Youth are inspired by the visionary leadership of Riccardo Muti and engage dozens of youth people who are in the care of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, Cook County or the Department of Children and Family Services. Muti, who first visited a Juvenile Justice facility during his inaugural season as Music Director in 2010, maintains a commitment to make an annual visit to a Chicago-area correctional facility to present an interactive recital alongside guest opera singers and CSO musicians. Additionally, site-specific projects are implemented by the Institute in partnership with specialists in the field of youth development and juvenile justice, responding to the unique needs of each partner organization and the youth they serve.

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SUBSCRIPTION AND TICKET INFORMATION

Subscription materials for the 2016/17 season of Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Symphony Center Presents concerts are now available, offering savings of up to 36% off regular single ticket prices on a wide variety of concert packages, from three to 10 concerts each. Subscriptions to the CSO’s new, three-concert series at Wheaton College are also now available. Subscribers receive reduced prices on additional tickets when purchased by August 12, 2016, plus ticket exchange options and other subscriber-only benefits, including priority service, pre-paid parking options and discounts on Symphony Center merchandise and at Tesori restaurant at Symphony Center. Box seat and 10-concert subscribers also receive unlimited free ticket exchange privileges throughout the season.

Tickets for Special Concerts are currently available for purchase only with subscriptions. Subscriptions may be purchased or renewed by any of five methods: online, by phone, by fax, by mail or in person at the box office. The CSO provides an easy payment plan option for subscribers: subscription purchases made by credit card by April 1, 2016 are eligible for the payment plan and will be automatically charged in two, three or four monthly installments.

For more information, patrons should call CSO Ticketing Services at 312-294-3000 or 800-223-7114, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or visit the CSO’s website at cso.org. Groups of 10 or more who are interested in subscribing to the 2016/17 season should call Symphony Center’s Group Sales Department at 312-294-3040.

Patrons also can visit cso.org to order tickets and parking, learn about other nearby attractions and restaurants, purchase CSO merchandise and make donations. For background on the performances and the performers, patrons should go to CSO Sounds and Stories, the CSO’s online magazine at www.csosoundsandstories.org. It features program notes, articles and audio and video to enhance patrons’ experience before and after the performance.

Symphony Center, home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, is at 220 S. Michigan Ave. in Chicago.

CSO Tuesday series concerts are sponsored by United Airlines.

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Media contacts:

Eileen Chambers, [email protected], 312-294-3092 Clay Baker, [email protected], 312-294-3089

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