Civic Plays Esmail, Elgar & Lutosławski

Feb 2, 2026
Tickets become available on Jan 16
Remind me

Overview

Alpesh Chauhan makes his Civic Orchestra debut conducting Elgar’s In the South — a sun-drenched tribute to the glories of ancient Rome. Premiered in 2018 at Wentz Concert Hall, Reena Esmail’s evocative Black Iris is named after Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous painting and inspired by the #MeToo movement. The program concludes with the irrepressible sweep and invention of Lutosławski’s Concerto for Orchestra.

Ticket Information: Pay what you wish, starting at $5, for this concert. By paying for your ticket, you demonstrate the value music plays in your life and help make this performance available to all. Seating is general admission.

Schedule
Program
Esmail

Black Iris

Elgar

In the South

Lutosławski

Concerto for Orchestra

Sponsors & Partners

The 2025/26 Civic Orchestra season is generously sponsored by Lori Julian for the Julian Family Foundation, which also provides major funding for the Civic Fellowship program.

The Civic Orchestra of Chicago acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.