Chicago Symphony Orchestra

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The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is an American orchestra based in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1891, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious orchestras in the United States. The CSO performs most of its concerts at Symphony Center, which is located in Chicago's Loop.

History

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra was founded by Theodore Thomas, who served as its first music director until his death in 1905. The orchestra quickly gained a reputation for excellence and has been led by a series of distinguished music directors, including Frederick Stock, Fritz Reiner, Georg Solti, and Daniel Barenboim. The current music director is Riccardo Muti, who has held the position since 2010.

Symphony Center

The CSO performs primarily at Symphony Center, which includes Orchestra Hall. The hall, designed by Daniel Burnham, opened in 1904 and has been the orchestra's home ever since. Symphony Center also hosts a variety of other musical performances and educational programs.

Music Directors

• Theodore Thomas (1891–1905)
• Frederick Stock (1905–1942)
• Desire Defauw (1943–1947)
• Artur Rodziński (1947–1948)
• Rafael Kubelík (1950–1953)
• Fritz Reiner (1953–1962)
• Jean Martinon (1963–1968)
• Georg Solti (1969–1991)
• Daniel Barenboim (1991–2006)
• Bernard Haitink (2006–2010, principal conductor)
• Riccardo Muti (2010–present)

Recordings and Awards

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has an extensive discography and has won numerous Grammy Awards for its recordings. The orchestra has recorded under various labels, including RCA Victor, Deutsche Grammophon, and CSO Resound, its own label.

Education and Outreach

The CSO is committed to music education and community outreach. The Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO offers a variety of programs for young musicians and audiences, including the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the CSO's training orchestra.

Related Pages

• Symphony Center
• Grammy Awards
• Riccardo Muti
• Georg Solti
• Daniel Barenboim
• Orchestra

See Also

• List of symphony orchestras in the United States
• Music of Chicago
• Classical music

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