Grab a drink and learn something new!

Start your Thursday night at Symphony Center with a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage and an interactive multimedia discussion between Chicago’s favorite radio DJ, WXRT’s Terri Hemmert, and a CSO musician. From rock to classical, the Beatles to Haydn, learn more about the works programmed and their influence on popular music. Enjoy four evenings of Classic Encounter — the perfect pairing with your CSO Classical concerts.

2025/26 Classic Encounter

Honeck Conducts Mozart Requiem | NOV 20
Salonen Conducts La mer | FEB 5
Sibelius 2 & Tüür Accordion Concerto | APR 2
Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein | JUNE 11

Choose three or more Classic Encounter and concert dates to guarantee the best concert seating and gain access to exclusive perks such as discounted parking rates, presale offers and more.

Subscribe to the new season and save 15%. Individual tickets go on sale in early August. 

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Need help? Contact our friendly and knowledgeable Patron Services team for personalized assistance by calling 312-394-3000.

About Your Host

Terri Hemmert
Credit: Todd Rosenberg

Legendary disc jockey and “Queen of Rock and Roll radio” (WTTW) Terri Hemmert brings a unique charm to Symphony Center. Starting as an overnight announcer and public affairs director in 1973, she became Chicago’s first female morning-drive personality in 1981. In 2002, she became host of “Breakfast with the Beatles,” and in 2010 she was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame. Terri, who some call “Aunt Terri,” offers a friendly initiation into the symphony experience, an introduction for those who are curious and an opportunity to get comfortable while pairing music in the most unique fashion.

Read about Terri’s 50 years with WXRT-FM »

Evening Schedule:

• 6:00 Doors Open
• 6:15 Presentation
• 7:30 CSO Concert

Please note: Dessert and a glass of wine are included.

Media Partner