Yo-Yo Ma & the CSO

Nov 11, 2026
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Overview Schedule Program Performers

Overview

For all the rich dimensions of Yo-Yo Ma’s extraordinary career, Shostakovich’s First Cello Concerto holds a special place. It was one of the first concertos he ever recorded, over 40 years ago, and it charts a searing emotional journey: Composed after the death of Stalin, the piece unleashes moods of biting sarcasm, rage, despair and soulful poignancy. Ma joins conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto, a frequent guest in Chicago, including with the CSO and the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. A different side of Russian music, Rachmaninov’s plush and glittering Symphonic Dances shows the master at the height of his late powers.

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Photo: Yo-Yo Ma and Carlos Miguel Prieto in 2023

Schedule
Program
Ginastera

Four Dances from Estancia

Shostakovich

Cello Concerto No. 1

Rachmaninov

Symphonic Dances

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