Events in Chicago May
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Events in Chicago May 2027 schedule
May is an exciting month for classical and live music enthusiasts in Chicago, with a diverse lineup of performances across renowned venues. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) leads the month with a series of captivating concerts at Orchestra Hall, starting early in the month with the mesmerizing 'Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi' on May 1st. This event features the celebrated composer Joe Hisaishi, known for his evocative film scores. Later, from May 6th to 8th, the orchestra presents 'Honeck Conducts Mahler & Bruckner 9,' showcasing the mastery of conductor Franz Welser-Möst and featuring works by Mahler and Bruckner, including Bruckner's Symphony No. 9, a profound and monumental piece.
Mid-May highlights include two performances of 'Einstein's Imagination' on May 15th, designed for a family and educational audience, with performances at 11:00 am and 12:45 pm. The program explores the creative genius of Albert Einstein through a symphonic experience. The same weekend, the orchestra features 'Makela, Bariashvili & Sibelius 1,' a tribute to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, with concerts scheduled for May 15th, 16th, and 17th, emphasizing the lush melodies and symphonic depth of Sibelius's Symphony No. 1.
May 20th and 21st bring the innovative 'Tan Dun - Water Concerto & Marco Polo,' where the orchestra explores modern compositions inspired by water and Asian culture, with performances in the evening and afternoon. On May 24th, audiences can enjoy 'Two Pianos - Who Could Ask for Anything More?' showcasing the dynamic collaboration of two talented pianists.
The latter part of the month features the renowned conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen, leading the CSO in a series of concerts on May 27th and 28th with the talented Yunchan Lim, performing contemporary and classical masterpieces. For jazz and contemporary music fans, Joel Ross performs on May 14th at Orchestra Hall, while jazz legends Kissin, Vengerov & Capucon take the stage on May 18th.
Outside the classical sphere, the Riviera Theatre hosts the popular singer Valery Meladze on May 23rd, offering a vibrant live music experience. Throughout the month, Chicago's top venues and orchestras promise a rich tapestry of performances, making May an exceptional time for cultural exploration in the city.