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Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Mäkelä Conducts Beethoven 9

June 17-20, 2027
Klaus Mäkelä

Overview

Two hundred years ago, Beethoven shook the world with his final symphony, and especially its Ode to Joy finale, one of the most celebrated melodies ever written. A declaration of friendship, compassion and our common humanity, it holds special meaning in our hyper-polarized times. When you hear it live, the power of so many triumphant voices stirs the soul. Zell Music Director Designate Klaus Mäkelä pairs this monumental work with Beethoven’s poignant Elegy, a meditation on longing and connection, and Boulez’s iridescent cantata The Sun of Waters, which evokes renewal and the shimmer of a world awakening.

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Program

Beethoven

Elegy

Boulez

Le soleil des eaux

Beethoven

Symphony No. 9

Performers
Conductor
Zell Music Director Designate
Soprano
Mezzo-soprano
Bass-baritone
Chorus Director

Enhance your experience

Preconcert Conversation

Explore the music in a free preconcert conversation featuring Max Raimi in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The talk will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets are needed.

Preconcert Dining

Explore Chicago 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.

Reservations        Learn more and view the menu

Sponsors & Partners

These concerts are generously sponsored by Zell Family Foundation.

The appearance of the Chicago Symphony Chorus has been made possible by a generous gift from The Grainger Foundation.


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