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Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
June 11-13, 2026
Overview
As part of the CSO’s tribute to 250 years of American history, Jean-Yves Thibaudet takes on the extravagant, jazz-infused piano solo in Leonard Bernstein’s The Age of Anxiety, based on W. H. Auden’s poem about the quest for faith and meaning. Sumptuous orchestral highlights from Gershwin and Weill musicals frame a stirring selection of spirituals performed with the Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir.
Program
Weill (arr. R. R. Bennett)
Lady in the Dark, Symphonic Nocturne
Hogan
Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel
Hailstork
I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes
Gershwin (orch. Rose)
Overture to Girl Crazy
Halloran
Witness
Johnson (arr. Carter)
Lift Every Voice and Sing
Bernstein
Symphony No. 2 (The Age of Anxiety)
Performers
Extras
Enhance your concert experience.
Write a Letter to America
Friday, June 12
12:30 PM | Grainger Ballroom
Join archivists from the Chicago Public Library for a preconcert and intermission event inviting audiences to share their reflections, critiques, hopes, and stories rooted in Chicago experiences. Letters that have a Chicago-theme and a signed Deed of Gift will be preserved in the Chicago Public Library’s Northside Neighborhood History Collection. This citywide initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States and creates space for civic reflection and storytelling. Learn more »
Preconcert Dining
Explore Symphony Center’s on-site dining options for a seamless preconcert experience. Preorder a Sound Bites meal to enjoy in the Rotunda before the concert — or make a reservation to dine at the Thomas Club, offering a prix fixe menu featuring traditional American fare and a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. View menus and learn more »
Preconcert Conversation
Explore the music in a free preconcert conversation featuring Johann Buis in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The talk will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets are needed.
Classic Encounter
Thursday, June 11: Preconcert multimedia discussion hosted by the “Queen of Rock and Roll” Terri Hemmert, with guest CSO musician.
You will have the opportunity to add Classic Encounter to your order after selecting your concert seats.
Learn more about Classic Encounter »
Out at the CSO: Pride Night at Symphony Center
Kick off Pride Month at exclusive preconcert and postconcert celebrations on Thursday, June 11. Enjoy food provided by Industry Ales and Kusina ni Mars, beverages provided by Revolution Brewing and Sidetrack Chicago, and sweets provided by Chicago Sugar Daddy. Learn more »
CSO African American Network Reception
On Saturday, June 13 the CSO African American Network will host a postconcert event. Tickets required for entry. Learn more about the event at CSO AAN »
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Discover more on Experience CSO
French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet will serve as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Artist-in-Residence for the 2026/2027 Season.
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Though James Gaffigan has spent much of his career working in Europe, he has regularly returned to the United States for guest-conducting runs; he also has always maintained American music as one of the pillars of his repertoire.
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For inspiration, composer Adolphus Hailstork has observed: “I always go to the Psalms. What I do is select the words that create a visceral response in me."
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