Family Concerts
For over 100 years, the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra has performed fun and imaginative concerts for children at Symphony Center. A cornerstone of the CSO’s offerings for young people today, Once Upon a Symphony and Family Matinees showcase symphonic masterworks and incorporate theater, dance or multimedia to help deepen audience engagement with the music.
Once Upon a Symphony (for ages 3-5)
Presented in Symphony Center's intimate Buntrock Hall, Once Upon a Symphony weaves chamber music performed by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra with storytelling, sets, costumes and multimedia to create a captivating and magical introduction to live music for children aged 3-5.
The Ugly Duckling
Dec 6, 2025-Jan 31, 2026
When four farm animals are no longer needed, they set off for the town of Bremen, dreaming of becoming musicians. On the way, they discover a house full of robbers! The friends quickly join forces to scare away the thieves, uncovering hidden courage they never knew they had.
The Bremen Town Musicians
Mar 7-Apr 18, 2026
When four farm animals are no longer needed, they set off for the town of Bremen, dreaming of becoming musicians. On the way, they discover a house full of robbers! The friends quickly join forces to scare away the thieves, uncovering hidden courage they never knew they had.
Mother Goose & The Cabinet of Wonder (for ages 3-8)
Mother Goose & The Cabinet of Wonder
May 9, 2026
Join legendary singer-songwriter Natalie Merchant, members of the CSO and special guests for a joyful singalong with Mother Goose. This captivating program features traditional nursery rhymes adapted by Merchant and orchestrated for an array of instrumental groups. Be a part of this magical musical world of learning and imagination.
Family Matinees (for ages 5+)
Perfect for families with children ages 5-12, these hour-long performances take place in historic Orchestra Hall and often feature actors, dancers and multimedia. Additionally, parents can access online resources to help prepare for the performance, including learning guides and custom playlists.
What Instrument Should I Play?
Nov 15, 2025
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.
Classical Elements
Mar 21, 2026
Conductor Mei-Ann Chen and members of the CSO embark on a musical exploration of air, fire and water. Journey through a musical depiction of the elements that help to create balance on planet Earth, and discover how we are all part of that harmony.
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