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.

Chicago Philharmonic in Action

Our audiences are 200,000+ strong annually, and we reach 6,000+ community members and students through educational programs every year. We present 30+ concerts annually and year-round, featuring BIPOC musicians and drawing new-to-the-symphony audiences. We are the Miwest’s premier partner orchestra, collaborating with Joffrey Ballet, Ravinia Festival, Lollapalooza, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, English National Ballet, Harris Theater, Auditorium Theatre, Laufey, Ryan Speedo Green, and more.

We offer 6 education programs including: Chi Phil Academy of Music (AMP), providing in-school personalized music mentorship in Chicago schools; Side by Side with the Chicago Philharmonic, with the Chicago Park District, where community members perform alongside the orchestra in neighborhood parks; and Families to the Phil, providing 500+ tickets to families. Additionally, we strive to incorporate community-centered opportunities (panel discussions, rehearsal observations, and more) year-round.

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By The Chicago Philharmonic Society

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