Freedom Riders with special guests Kurt Elling & Lizz Wright

In the 1960s, Freedom Rider activists challenged racial segregation in the Southern United States. With reverence for their courage and struggle, this groundbreaking international jazz collective features a new generation of artists and composers who continue in the tradition of providing a soundtrack to the global civil rights movement. Joined by esteemed vocalists Kurt Elling and Lizz Wright, the Freedom Riders band offers vital inspiration through music that unites audiences with the energy and spirit of shared humanity.

Freedom Riders is a project of NYC Winter JazzFest.

Enhance your concert experience.

Preconcert Dining

Explore Symphony Center’s on-site dining options for a seamless preconcert experience. Preorder a Sound Bites meal to enjoy in the Rotunda at Symphony Center before the concert — or make a reservation to dine at the Thomas Club, offering a prix fixe menu featuring traditional American fare and a spectacular view of lake Michigan. View menus and learn more »

African American Network

Join African American Network members and friends in Grainger Ballroom for a preconcert conversation with author and jazz critic Howard Reich. His book, The Majesty of Chicago Jazz: Twenty-Five Visionaries Who Define the City’s Sound, highlights many artists featured in the Symphony Center Presents Jazz series. The preconcert book signing is open to all ticket holders at 7:15 before the performance.