Chicago Symphony Orchestra Debuts at The Soraya for 15th Anniversary

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) will make its debut at The Soraya on January 22, 2026, as part of a special event celebrating the venue’s 15th anniversary. Conducted by Riccardo Muti, the concert features a selection of classical masterpieces, including Brahms’s final symphony, Hindemith’s *Mathis der Maler*, and Strauss Jr.’s romantic overture to *The Gypsy Baron*. This performance is part of a seven-city tour across the western United States by the CSO.

This concert is one of five events in the Crystal Series highlighting The Soraya’s commitment to connecting audiences with exceptional artists and international performing arts. According to Thor Steingraber, Executive and Artistic Director of The Soraya, “Over the last 15 years, The Soraya has presented some of the world’s finest orchestras, shining in the venue’s exceptional acoustics.” Steingraber, a native of Chicago, expressed his excitement about bringing the CSO to The Soraya during his tenure.

The evening will commence with the overture from Johann Strauss Jr.’s *The Gypsy Baron*, setting a festive tone for the performance. Following this, the orchestra will delve into Hindemith’s *Mathis der Maler*, a work that explores the artist’s role in society. The concert will culminate with Brahms’s Symphony No. 4 in E minor, a piece revered for its depth and complexity.

Tickets for the concert are available starting at $84 through The Soraya’s website, and an intimate dinner will follow the performance to celebrate both the venue’s anniversary and Steingraber’s final season. Proceeds from the dinner will support the 15th Anniversary initiative as well as the newly established Thor Steingraber Fund for Artistic Innovation.

The CSO is renowned for its interpretations of Brahms, with celebrated conductors such as Georg Solti, James Levine, and Daniel Barenboim having made significant contributions to its legacy. Brahms, along with Bach and Beethoven, is often regarded as one of the most important composers across three musical periods: Baroque, Classical, and Romantic.

Hindemith’s *Mathis der Maler*, composed in 1934, raises critical questions about the responsibilities of artists in society. The piece was first performed by the Los Angeles Symphony in the same year under the direction of Otto Klemperer.

As anticipation builds for this unique concert, it promises to be a memorable highlight in The Soraya’s rich history, showcasing the exceptional talent of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the artistic vision of Maestro Riccardo Muti.