A CELEBRATION OF BEETHOVEN'S UPCOMING 250TH ANNIVERSARY

In 2020 orchestras around the globe are set to mark the 250th year since the birth of Beethoven. Chicago Symphony join the party with a number of special concerts heralding this momentous year, including this program in February featuring the composer's majestic Symphony No. 2 and Symphony no.5. Also featured is the world premiere of French composer Nicholas Bacri's new work Ophelia's Tears.

The conductor is Riccardo Muti, Chicago Symphony's music director since 2010. Born in Naples, Italy, his glittering career has seen him earn a wealth of high international honors including Honorary Knight Commander of the British Empire bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II, the Order Of Friendship from Vladimir Putin and Knight of the Grand Cross First Class of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great, awarded by Pope Benedict XVI.