Chicago Philharmonic is a non-profit organization funded by people like YOU.

Chicago Philharmonic is reimagining the orchestra concert experience through culturally diverse, genre-bending programs breaking barriers of exclusion in orchestral music. With diverse, trailblazing leadership, we are one of the most ambitious and innovative orchestras in the country.

The orchestra was created by Lyric Opera principal musicians in 1989, restructuring in 2012 as a community of 200 musician members. Today, we are a crucial part of Chicago’s music ecosystem and an incubator of talent, creating thousands of jobs for 289 musicians annually and making Chicago a viable home for talented freelance musicians.

In 2021, Crain’s Business 40 Under 40 awardee Terell Johnson joined as Executive Director, making the Philharmonic one of the few Black-led orchestras nationwide. Terell is one in a long line of dedicated, innovative leaders who are re-making the world of symphonic music, right here in Chicago.

About the Chicago Philharmonic's 36th Annual Season

Chicago Philharmonic’s 36th Season is a bold, year-round celebration of symphonic music’s power to connect, inspire, and transform. With over 30 concerts, educational programs, and community initiatives, we’re redefining what an orchestra can be, everywhere from world-class stages to neighborhood parks.

This season features major artistic milestones, including:

The World Premiere of Invictus by Chicago composer Stacy Garrop, performed by Marta Aznavoorian and recorded for Cedille Records:

The Chicago Premiere of Damien Geter’s An African American Requiem: a searing, contemporary work honoring civil rights leaders through music:

The return of our Artist in Residence program with violinist Njioma Chinyere Grevious, mentoring hundreds of students and culminating in two free concerts featuring Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3 and the U.S. Premiere of Elzbieta Sikora’s Liquid Air:

We’re also expanding our reach through genre-defying collaborations, from Whiplash in Concert and Beethoven x Beyoncé to a holiday program with Sleeping At Last and a Frida Kahlo tribute with the Joffrey Ballet.

Our community programs continue to grow, with Side by Side concerts, free music education through AMP, and deep partnerships with schools and organizations across Chicago. Last year, our audiences were 42% BIPOC and 54% under age 44 - proof that our work is resonating with the next generation.

Together, we’re building a Philharmonic for all of Chicago. Join us.

Support the Chicago Philharmonic

Team Members