Classical Gas

Now that summer is here, the last thing we want to do is go inside (unless it’s raining cats and dogs), so it makes sense that we Chicagoans love outdoor concerts. Even better if you’ve always been curious about classical music, but felt intimidated by going to the Symphony Center. Let me highly recommend taking a picnic, bringing friends and family and heading out to see two marvelous orchestras. You can hear the world famous Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Ravinia, their summer home. You can experience Chopin to Wagner…Beethoven to Gershwin. Visit ravinia.org for schedule information. Your other option is the Grant Park Symphony at the Jay Pritzker Pavillion in Millennium Park. The same symphony we’ve seen play with Poi Dog Pondering and the Decembrists. The one that performs the 1812 Overture on the 3rd of July. If you don’t want to make the drive to the north shore, or your budget favors a free concert, this is your ticket. Actually, you don’t even need a ticket. Just because it’s free doesn’t mean the musicianship isn’t top notch. It certainly is, especially when joined by their excellent Chorus. They will perform Dvorak’s Requiem in August. If you wondered what all the fuss was about Franz Liszt (remember the Phoenix song Lisztomania) they’ll perform Liszt’s 2nd Piano Concerto in July. Free. With a great view of this beautiful city. You can find this season’s schedule at www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/the-music/2010-season.

Now check out a couple of videos, grab your calendar, make some plans, enjoy the music, and hopefully I’ll see you in the fall for Classic Encounter with the CSO. By then you’ll feel right at home at Symphony Center. Part of the charm of living in Chicago is spending time at Symphony Center, Buddy Guy’s Legends and Metro. Just get out of the house and enjoy.