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Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Mäkelä Conducts Ein Heldenleben
Feb 19-21, 2026
Overview
It isn’t hard to guess the identity of the central character in A Hero’s Life, Richard Strauss’ extravagant showpiece filled with action, valor and romance — it’s undeniably the composer himself. Zell Music Director Designate Klaus Mäkelä pairs the work with music from his native Finland: Sibelius’ Lemminkäinen, a symphonic portrait of the life and romantic escapades of the country’s folk hero.
Program
Sibelius
Lemminkäinen
R. Strauss
Ein Heldenleben
Performers
Extras
Enhance your concert experience.
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 Carl Grapentine in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The talk will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets are needed.
Lemminkäinen the Disruptor
Directly after the concert on February 21, join Professor Thomas Dubois for a presentation and audience Q&A about the story and artistic influences of the fabled folk hero Lemminkäinen on Sibelius’ composition. This event is open to all ticket holders and will take place in Grainger Ballroom with limited seating. Read more about Sibelius’ Lemminkäinen »
Sponsors & Partners
Maestro Residency Presenter
These concerts are generously sponsored by Zell Family Foundation.
Discover more on Experience CSO
Finland’s national epic, the Kalevala, has roots in two cultures; one of its heroes is celebrated in Jean Sibelius’ Lemminkäinen.
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Considered one of the world’s greatest Strauss ensembles, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra plays "Ein Heldenleben," whose U.S. premiere it gave in 1900, along with Webern's "Im Sommerwind."
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On March 6, 1954, Fritz Reiner and the Orchestra recorded together for the first time: Richard Strauss' Dance of the Seven Veils from Salome and Ein Heldenleben, both for RCA.
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