Symphony Ball with Klaus Mäkelä

Celebrate the 2026/27 Season in grand fashion as Zell Music Director Designate Klaus Mäkelä leads a musical journey to the opulent Babylon of Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast . The great baritone Thomas Hampson joins the CSO for this dramatic cantata, which Walton fills with lavish orchestral colors, mighty choruses and hints of jazz. The musical celebration begins with Stravinsky’s dazzling tale of puppets springing to life amid a fantastical Russian carnival. Don’t miss the chance to walk the red carpet and toast the launch of an exciting new season. Enhance your concert experience with a Symphony Ball gala package , including a private preconcert reception for patrons and sponsors in the Forte event space and postconcert dinner and celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago.