AAN at 10: 10th Anniversary Celebration
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra and African American Network (AAN) celebrates 10 years of community, leadership and artistic excellence with a special anniversary evening at Symphony Center.
Join us on Saturday, June 13 for an all-American CSO concert followed by a festive anniversary celebration honoring a decade of the AAN’s impact.
Event Details
Saturday, June 13
- 7:30 CSO Concert Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein
- 9:30 AAN Event AAN 10th Anniversary Celebration
Following an all-American program conducted by James Gaffigan — featuring Jean‑Yves Thibaudet in Bernstein’s The Age of Anxiety and a stirring selection of spirituals performed by the Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir — AAN members and friends are invited to Grainger Ballroom for a 10th‑anniversary celebration.
Join us for wine, appetizers and a special musical tribute as we share stories and toast a decade of incredible leadership.
Tickets & Pricing
Tickets are limited and expected to sell out, so secure yours now to be part of the 10th-anniversary celebration.
Specially priced concert tickets start at $40 using promo code AANSEASON. A separate ticket to attend the reception is free.
When ordering your concert ticket, follow the prompts to add your free reception ticket to the order. Both a concert ticket and reception ticket are required for admittance to the reception. If you forgot to order the reception ticket or have questions and need assistance, contact Patron Services online.
Attire
To celebrate a milestone evening that brings together powerful music, community and a decade of the AAN, add a touch of silver to your evening look!
Celebrating 10 Years of the AAN
Since its founding, the African American Network has fostered connection within the CSO community. As part of our anniversary reflection, we invite you to explore the AAN’s history and hear from the voices who helped shape it.
Voices from the AAN Community
As I look back on the last ten years of the African American Network, I have felt a sense of belonging in the CSO space. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has highlighted Black artists across a wide range of genres. A performance by Renée Baker stands out to me. It was an eclectic piece of classical music. I was in awe when I heard it. It was a great new experience.
I have invited many of my family and friends into a space where they hadn’t always felt comfortable. They have since embraced various genres of music and became part of a new network, the African American Network.
Tracy Stanciel
Chair, AAN Advisory Board
Over the past decade, AAN has created more than a connection to music; it has built a true sense of belonging. From powerful performances to meaningful gatherings, it has been a space where culture, community, and artistry meet. AAN represents pride, legacy, and the joy of seeing ourselves reflected in the arts.
Lenese Reynolds
Vice Chair, AAN Advisory Board
Happy 10th Anniversary to the African American Network of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The AAN has brought together people of all ages who love the arts, classical music, jazz and other musical genres presented by the CSO’s musicians. As we celebrate AAN, we honor past and present African American classical musicians and support the CSO, and the next generation of CSO artists.
Marian E. Perkins
Member, AAN Advisory Board
