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 in partnership with Chicago Children’s Theatre, 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.
Stone Soup
Dec 5, 2026-Feb 13, 2027
A hungry traveler arrives at a village where the townspeople claim they have no food to share. But the traveler pulls out a large pot, fills it with water, adds stones and says, “We have everything we need to make stone soup.” Before long, the villagers contribute to the broth and enjoy the most delicious soup they have ever tasted. In this musical adaptation of the classic tale, learn how the act of sharing fosters joy and celebration. Learn more »
The Elves and the Shoemaker
Mar 20-Apr 24, 2027
A poor shoemaker and his wife receive magical help from elves who secretly finish their shoes during the night. After the shoes are snapped up by customers, the couple are left to wonder: Who could have done such marvelous work? And will the magic continue? The fable is about the joy that comes from giving — and receiving — kindness and generosity. Learn more »
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.
Symphonic Superheroes
Nov 21, 2026
Move over Superman, Wonder Woman and other caped crusaders! In this captivating program, you’ll discover the superhero qualities of a symphony orchestra. Alastair Willis and members of the CSO demonstrate how musicians use courage and tenacity to perform music — whether it’s taking solos or working together as an ensemble. Learn more »
The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra
Mar 6, 2027
Benjamin Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra is the ultimate introduction to the instruments of an orchestra. Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser leads the CSO in this iconic and delightful piece, joined by special guest artists from The Second City adding their signature wit and spontaneity to this imaginative musical adventure. Using a single melody to introduce each instrument family, Britten’s score spotlights the unique character of every instrument. Once the theme travels through the ensemble, one section at a time, the orchestra reunites for a glorious, rip-roaring conclusion. Learn more »
Einstein’s Imagination
May 15, 2027
Discover the imaginative world of Albert Einstein and find out how the principles of physics determine a musical performance. Conductor Tania Miller and members of the CSO explore Einstein’s theories and how science is intertwined with the extraordinary energy and emotion of a symphony orchestra. Learn more »
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