URGENT UPDATE: As the nation gears up for its 250th birthday, the Grant Park Music Festival in Chicago is set to launch an exciting new season under the direction of Giancarlo Guerrero. Kicking off on June 10, 2026, this festival promises a dynamic exploration of what truly defines “American music,” blending beloved classics with fresh, innovative voices.
The festival will run from June 10 to August 15, featuring concerts at the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Harris Theater. Guerrero’s inaugural season as artistic director is framed around a compelling question: what constitutes “American music”? He aims to challenge traditional boundaries by showcasing both recognized composers and those whose work has been influenced by their experiences in the U.S.
The opening night will feature a thrilling lineup including Joan Tower’s Made in America, Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, and Samuel Barber’s Symphony No. 1. Guerrero emphasizes that this program is not just a celebration of U.S. composers but also a means to expand listeners’ perspectives on familiar works through diverse historical and cultural lenses.
Season Highlights: The festival is packed with exciting events, featuring renowned names like George Gershwin and Aaron Copland, along with a special performance by Ben Folds. Attendees can look forward to two world premieres and several Chicago and Illinois premieres, providing a broad and inclusive view of America’s musical landscape as it prepares for the semiquincentennial.
Adding to the excitement, former festival principals Carlos Kalmar and Leonard Slatkin will return as guest conductors, leading programs that promise to captivate audiences. Kalmar will conduct on July 1, 3, and 8, while Slatkin’s performances on July 10-11 will include Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony alongside his own compositions.
The festival also features a diverse roster of guest conductors and soloists, including Christopher Bell, Kalena Bovell, and violinist Yevgeny Kutik. Guerrero’s vision aims to juxtapose canonical works with lesser-known pieces, enriching the audience’s experience.
How to Attend: All concerts at the Grant Park Music Festival remain free to the public, with general seating available on the lawn. For those seeking enhanced experiences, memberships that offer reserved seating and other benefits are now on sale. Membership packages include discounted parking and exclusive invitations to member-only events, catering to various price points.
With its ambitious programming and inclusive approach, the Grant Park Music Festival is poised to create a vibrant cultural celebration as America approaches a historic milestone. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this musical journey starting June 10!
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting festival unfolds!
