CSO's Once Upon a Symphony

Founded in 1891, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is consistently hailed as one of the greatest orchestras in the world. It's a Chicago staple and a must visit for anyone in the city. It's iconic building was one I past every day during my undergraduate studies in Chicago and a constant reminder of the beautiful history and culture that the city of Chicago thrives on. 

In collaboration with the best conductors and guest artists on the international music scene, the CSO performs well over one hundred concerts each year at its downtown home, Symphony Center and at the Ravinia Festival on Chicago’s North Shore. Music lovers outside Chicago enjoy the sounds of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra through best-selling recordings and frequent sold-out tour performances in the United States and around the globe.

Back in June, I had the opportunity to expose my two daughters to the wonder that is CSO's Once Upon a Symphony at College of Dupage's MAC. It was an amazing opportunity to expose them to music at an early age in a fun and educational format. We saw the performance of The Little Red Hen. It was an interactive time of imagination play, enjoyment and dancing all to a beautiful ensemble. 

Images courtesy of CSO

The Once Upon a Symphony shows are expertly designed for the youngest concertgoers. The show weaves vivid storytelling, live music, sets, costumes and images to create a unique and magical overture to the live music experience. These concerts enhance child development as life-long learners by cultivating skills such as problem solving, making connections, focus and self-regulation, perspective, persistence and self-directed, engaged learning. 

The upcoming performances are a must see before the end of the year draws to a close! 

CHILDREN & FAMILIES
The King Elephant and the Mice
Saturday, Dec 5, Jan 9, Feb 20
10:00 a.m. & 11:45 a.m.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Saturday, Mar 19, Apr 16, May 7
10:00 a.m. & 11:45 a.m.

Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before the performance!

SCHOOLS & TEACHERS

The King Elephant and the Mice
Monday, Dec 7, Feb 22
10:15 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Monday, Mar 21, May 9
10:15 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.


Each Saturday performance is preceded by a special set of activities, led by collaborating music educators, to introduce some of the music you will hear at the concert. Participating in these activities will prepare your child to take part in the interactive portions of the performance and plant seeds for strong memories.

Monday performances are intended primarily for preschool groups. Preconcert activities are not offered, but educational materials and free classroom visits by trained Docents and music educators will help prepare young students for their visit to Symphony Center.