
Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem
Chicago Symphony Center · Chicago, IL
More classical in this area →Why Buy from CultureTicks?
About Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem
Performance Details
- Genre
- Classical
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Next Date
- 6/20/2026
About This Performance
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents a uniquely American program pairing Aaron Copland's stirring Lincoln Portrait with Duke Ellington's evocative Harlem suite. Copland's 1942 masterpiece combines orchestral grandeur with spoken excerpts from Lincoln's speeches, creating a powerful tribute to American ideals during wartime. Ellington's Harlem captures the vibrant energy and complex emotions of New York's most famous neighborhood through the lens of jazz-influenced orchestral writing. Together, these works showcase the rich diversity of American classical music from two legendary composers.
Under the baton of conductor Joshua Weilerstein, audiences can expect an emotionally resonant evening that bridges classical tradition with distinctly American voices. Copland's piece builds to soaring, patriotic climaxes that showcase the CSO's renowned brass section, while Lincoln's words provide moments of reflection and inspiration. Ellington's contribution brings sophisticated jazz harmonies and rhythmic complexity to the concert hall, offering a different but equally compelling perspective on American musical identity. This program appeals both to classical music devotees and those curious about uniquely American contributions to the orchestral repertoire.
Chicago Symphony Center provides the perfect setting for this all-American program, with its exceptional acoustics allowing every nuance of both composers' distinctive orchestrations to shine. The hall's intimate yet grand atmosphere enhances the connection between Lincoln's timeless words and Copland's majestic musical setting, while providing the clarity needed for Ellington's intricate jazz-classical fusion. The CSO's legendary precision and warmth make them ideal interpreters of both works.
Browse available dates on CultureTicks to experience this celebration of American musical heritage with one of the world's finest orchestras.
What to Expect
Dress Code
Smart casual to business casual is appropriate for most classical performances.
Arrival
Arrive 15-30 minutes early. Latecomers may be seated at the discretion of the venue.
During the Show
Silence your phone. Applause is welcome between pieces or at the end of each act.
Reviews & Press
Reviews Coming Soon
Critical reviews and press coverage for Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem will appear here as they become available. Check the Dates & Tickets tab for upcoming performances.
Venue Guide: Chicago Symphony Center
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem
Where is Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem being performed?
Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem is being performed at Chicago Symphony Center. Check the venue section on this page for directions, parking information, and nearby dining options.
How long is Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem?
Performance lengths vary. Check the event details section for specific runtime information. Most performances include an intermission. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before showtime.
Is Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem suitable for children?
Check the event details for age recommendations. If none are listed, contact the venue directly. Many cultural performances welcome audiences of all ages, though some may have mature themes.
What is the dress code for Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem?
Dress codes vary by venue and event type. Most performing arts events have a smart casual to business casual dress code. For opening nights or galas, more formal attire may be expected.
Can I get a refund for Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Joshua Weilerstein - Copland's Lincoln Portrait & Ellington's Harlem tickets?
Refund policies vary by event and ticket provider. Review the refund policy on your ticket confirmation. For cancellations or rescheduled performances, ticket holders are typically notified by email with options.