2025/26 AAN Concerts & Events
The African American Network invites you to its 10th anniversary season, celebrating Black composers, conductors and performers across genres including classical, jazz and new music. This season, the African American Network hosts celebrations, artist meet-and-greets and networking events. Everyone is welcome!
Get your tickets today!
Concert tickets start at $40 with promo code AANSEASON — an easy and incredible savings opportunity to hear world-class music at Symphony Center.
FOR CONCERTS WITH AAN EVENTS:
For concerts with an AAN event, a separate, free event ticket is also required. Your concert ticket pricing will be adjusted after you have added your seats to the order.
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.
Stay tuned for the 2026/27 AAN concerts & events season announcement — subscriptions coming soon!
Mike Reed’s Chicago Inspirations | MAY 1
AAN at 10: City of Sound
Drummer-composer Mike Reed and a powerhouse ensemble of fellow Chicago improvisers explore the legacy of Chicago avant-garde jazz bassist and AACM member Fred Hopkins with new works, including a commission by Henry Threadgill. Before the concert, gather with African American Network members in Grainger Ballroom to celebrate Chicago’s jazz scene.
Gaffigan, Thibaudet & Bernstein | JUNE 13
AAN at 10: 10th Anniversary Celebration
Following an all-American program conducted by James Gaffigan, featuring Jean-Yves Thibaudet as soloist in Bernstein’s The Age of Anxiety and a stirring selection of spirituals performed by the Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir — including Lift Every Voice and Sing — join AAN members and friends in Grainger Ballroom to celebrate the group’s 10th anniversary. We will take a moment to recognize AAN leaders and appreciate the artwork of Sheila Jones, founder of the CSO African American Network.
Nubya Garcia / Somi | MAR 13
Tenor saxophonist Nubya Garcia and vocalist Somi make their Symphony Center debuts with graceful, powerful and genre-blending music.
IMPACT: Showcasing Education & Community Programs of the CSO | MAR 15
Be inspired by the musicians who are learning, growing and serving Chicago through the programs produced by the Negaunee Music Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Miles Davis at 100: Gonzalo Rubalcaba / Unlimited Miles | MAR 27
Pay tribute to Miles Davis’ centennial and his enduring legacy with a double bill concert featuring virtuosic pianism and bold new arrangements.
Alsop Conducts Adams, Copland & Marsalis | JUNE 4-6
The CSO joins forces with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for Liberty (Symphony No. 5), Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Wynton Marsalis’ latest symphonic work. Copland’s Appalachian Spring and a new work by John Adams kick off an all-American celebration.