Celebrate Black excellence in music.
The African American Network celebrates Black composers, conductors, and performers across a wide variety of genres, including classical, jazz and new music. By sharing unforgettable musical experiences, the group engages Chicago’s culturally rich African American community and builds meaningful relationships for generations to come.
Learn about the next event.
The Majesty of Chicago Jazz: Howard Reich in Conversation
Friday, October 2
6:00 AAN Event in Grainger Ballroom
8:00 Freedom Riders with special guests Kurt Elling & Lizz Wright
Joined by acclaimed vocalists Kurt Elling and Lizz Wright, the Freedom Riders, a groundbreaking international jazz collective, provides a soundtrack to the global civil rights movement. Before the concert, attend the season’s first African American Network event: a panel featuring former Chicago Tribune critic Howard Reich with local jazz luminaries Dee Alexander, Orbert Davis and Reginald R. Robinson. Drawing on more than three decades of coverage, Reich will discuss his new book, The Majesty of Chicago Jazz: Twenty-Five Visionaries Who Define the City’s Sound.
Tickets start at $40 with promo code AANSEASON. A separate free event ticket is also required.
Explore the full African American Network 2026/27 Season.
Join the African American Network in another extraordinary season of concerts, celebrations, artist meet-and-greets and networking events at Symphony Center.
Membership is free and open to all.
African American Network members enjoy access to exclusive special events and ticket offers throughout the season. See below for details on how to become a member, concert ticket offers, upcoming events and more!
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