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Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Which Instrument Should I Play?
Nov 15, 2025
Overview
Five-time Grammy-nominated children’s-music songwriter Justin Roberts joins conductor Andrew Grams and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for an engaging investigation of the timbres and techniques that make each instrument both unique and a vital part of the orchestra.
Perfect for ages 5-12.
Program to include selections from:
Rossini
Overture to William Tell
Roberts
New Work [World Premiere]
Bartók
Divertimento for String Orchestra
Ravel
Le tombeau de Couperin
Bruckner
Symphony No. 4 (Romantic)
J. Strauss, Jr.
Thunder and Lightning Polka
Tchaikovsky
Symphony No. 4
Performers
Extras
Preconcert activities at Symphony Center
FREE Orchestra Explorer Activities start 75 minutes before each concert in the Symphony Center Rotunda, featuring colorful and engaging activities and interactive musical experiences.
- 1st floor — Symphony Center Scavenger Hunt
- 2nd floor — Instrument Petting Zoo
- 3rd floor — Be a Composer!
- 4th floor — DIY Instruments and Puzzles
- 5th floor — Reading Corner and Mini-Maestros conducting activity with a Civic Orchestra chamber ensemble
To access the Rotunda, enter Symphony Center at 67 E. Adams St. and walk straight back. From the Michigan Avenue lobby, walk down the Arcade hallway to the right of the box office until you reach the Rotunda.
Sponsors & Partners
Youth Program Sponsor
Family Matinee Sponsor
CSO for Kids Sponsor
Discover more on Experience CSO
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Justin Roberts, a children's music specialist, says, “I write stuff that I would want to listen to as an adult. Kids are able to take in a lot more than we give them credit for.”
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The CSO for Kids program Which Instrument Should I Play? aims to help parents and guardians steer their musically inclined children toward instruments that are suitable for each individual child,
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Katy Clusen, associate director of CSO for Kids, started out as a teacher and then began to focus on music: "I got the job [as a music teacher] and music has been at the center of life since. Little did I know that I was walking into my true calling."
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