Seong-Jin Cho Teams Up with Chicago Symphony Orchestra for a Spectacular Performance

The recent Saturday concert by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra was not just another busy weekend for the talented musicians; it was a night where Symphony Center buzzed with excitement, thanks in large part to the presence of Seong-Jin Cho. The acclaimed pianist, who clinched the prestigious Chopin Competition in 2015, attracted a packed house with his extraordinary talent.

Stellar Conducting and Masterful Compositions

Under the confident baton of conductor Gemma New, the evening began with Aaron Jay Kernis' 'Musica Celestis.' This strings-only piece, inspired by the concept of angelic voices, swirled around the hall with a mix of tranquility and tumultuous energy, leading the audience through a heavenly soundscape.

Beethoven's 'Piano Concerto No. 3' Takes Center Stage

Seong-Jin Cho shone brightly as the soloist for Beethoven's 'Piano Concerto No. 3.' His impeccable performance showcased a blend of mighty musical expression and exceptional technique. The concerto's three movements took listeners on an emotional journey from somber determination to radiant triumph, with Cho nimbly navigating Beethoven's complex landscape.

Mendelssohn's 'Scottish' Symphony Concludes the Night

The evening's program concluded with Mendelssohn's 'Symphony No. 3,' also known as the 'Scottish' Symphony. The performance was a tapestry of stylistic twists and turns, with Conductor New and the CSO deftly handling the shifting moods and rhythms. From the folk-inspired flourishes to the romantic dialogues and victorious finale, the symphony was a fitting end to a night of superb music-making.

Ahead of the concert, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, in collaboration with the Korean-American Association of Chicago, celebrated the Korean Lunar New Year, inviting spectators to explore and participate in traditional customs.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra looks forward to welcoming students to its upcoming College Night, featuring Mahler's Symphony No. 4, offering a blend of cultural enrichment and social engagement.

Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Kernis