School Concerts
Introduce your students to the excitement and wonder of classical music with concerts that are designed especially for children and performed by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra! Choose from three different series: Once Upon a Symphony for Pre-K, Elementary School Concerts for grades K-5 and Youth Concerts for grades 6-12. Tickets are free for groups from Chicago Public Schools, keep an eye on the FAQ page for more information about transportation for CPS schools.
Explore Frequently Asked Questions to learn more.
Once Upon a Symphony (for Pre-K)
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 Bremen Town Musicians
Mar 9-Apr 13, 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.
Stone Soup
Dec 7, 2026-Feb 1, 2027 (Save the Date)
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.
The Elves and the Shoemaker
Apr 12-Apr 26, 2027 (Save the Date)
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.
Once Upon a Symphony is created in partnership with Chicago Children's Theatre.
Mother Goose & The Cabinet of Wonder (for grades PreK-2)
These fun, educational and engaging full orchestra performances take place in historic Orchestra Hall and often include elements of theater, dance or multimedia that complement the music.
Mother Goose & The Cabinet of Wonder
May 8, 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.
Kids Concerts (for grades K-8)
Classical Elements
Mar 20, 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.
Symphonic Superheroes
Friday, Nov 20, 2026 (Save the Date)
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.
The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra
Friday, March 5, 2027 (Save the Date)
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.
Einstein’s Imagination
Friday, May 14, 2027 (Save the Date)
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.
Youth Concerts (for grades 6-12)
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Cecilia O'Malley, Violin (winner of the 2026 Crain-Maling Foundation CSO Young Artists Competition)
Wednesday, March 3, 2027 (Save the Date)
Thursday, March 4, 2027 (Save the Date)