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Which Instrument Should I Play?

Nov 15, 2025
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Overview Schedule Program Performers Extras

Overview

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.

Perfect for ages 5-12.

Schedule
Program to include selections from:
Rossini

Overture to William Tell

Roberts

New Work [World Premiere]

Bartók

Divertimento for String Orchestra

Ravel

Le tombeau de Couperin

Bruckner

Symphony No. 4 (Romantic)

J. Strauss, Jr.

Thunder and Lightning Polka

Tchaikovsky

Symphony No. 4

Extras

Preconcert activities at Symphony Center

FREE Orchestra Explorer Activities start 75 minutes before each concert in the Symphony Center Rotunda, featuring colorful and engaging activities and interactive musical experiences.

  • 1st floor — Symphony Center Scavenger Hunt
  • 2nd floor — Instrument Petting Zoo
  • 3rd floor — Be a Composer!
  • 4th floor — DIY Instruments and Puzzles
  • 5th floor — Reading Corner and Mini-Maestros conducting activity with a Civic Orchestra chamber ensemble

To access the Rotunda, enter Symphony Center at 67 E. Adams St. and walk straight back. From the Michigan Avenue lobby, walk down the Arcade hallway to the right of the box office until you reach the Rotunda.

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Kids’ music songwriter Justin Roberts firmly puts his faith in his audience
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Justin Roberts, a children's music specialist, says, “I write stuff that I would want to listen to as an adult. Kids are able to take in a lot more than we give them credit for.”
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When a child chooses an instrument, parents and guardians play a key role
The CSO for Kids program Which Instrument Should I Play? aims to help parents and guardians steer their musically inclined children toward instruments that are suitable for each individual child,
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Backstage at the CSO: Katy Clusen, associate director of CSO for Kids
Katy Clusen, associate director of CSO for Kids, started out as a teacher and then began to focus on music: "I got the job [as a music teacher] and music has been at the center of life since. Little did I know that I was walking into my true calling."
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