Chicago Symphony Orchestra Shines Under Klaus Mäkelä’s Baton

URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) delivered an electrifying performance on September 28, 2025, showcasing the talents of its music director designate, Klaus Mäkelä. The concert featured Hector Berlioz’s iconic works, “Symphonie fantastique” and “Harold in Italy,” marking a significant moment for both the orchestra and Mäkelä as they embark on their collaborative journey.

The CSO’s ambitious program, a thrilling combination of two expansive pieces, captivated an enthusiastic audience, generating fervent cheers after each selection. This performance not only highlighted the orchestra’s technical prowess but also served as an early indicator of the ensemble’s evolving dynamics under the direction of the 29-year-old maestro, who officially takes over as music director in September 2027.

With no brief opening pieces, Mäkelä boldly presented a heavyweight program, signaling his intention to establish a unique identity within the orchestra’s storied history. The orchestra’s commitment to Mäkelä was palpable, as musicians played with remarkable energy and enthusiasm, underscoring their support for the young conductor.

Berlioz’s compositions are renowned for their innovative structures and rich orchestration. The “Symphonie fantastique,” known for its five movements, and the “Harold in Italy,” which blends elements of symphony and concerto, provided a perfect platform for Mäkelä to showcase his vision. The evening’s standout moments included a vibrant interpretation of the “Harold in Italy,” featuring Antoine Tamestit, a leading viola soloist, whose dynamic performance brought the narrative to life.

Tamestit, making his presence felt after debuting with the CSO in September 2024, captivated the audience with his nimble playing and expressive sound. His theatrical entrance, navigating the stage as if embodying the wandering hero of the piece, added a compelling layer to the performance. Following the concert, he treated the audience to an encore of J.S. Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, further showcasing his extraordinary talent.

Mäkelä’s choice to conduct from memory added an intimate touch to the performance, allowing him to connect more deeply with the musicians. The concert was characterized by surprising orchestrations, including a delicate duet between the solo viola and harp, played by guest harpist Emily Levin, and a dramatic finale featuring multiple percussionists on timpani.

The brass section shone brightly, with notable performances from new principal trombonist Timothy Higgins and principal trumpeter Esteban Batallán. Additionally, Scott Hostetler on English horn and guest flutist Herman van Kogelenberg from the Munich Philharmonic delivered standout solos, enriching the overall experience.

As the CSO embarks on its season, this concert marks a pivotal moment in its partnership with Mäkelä, setting the stage for an exciting future. The palpable anticipation surrounding his upcoming tenure will undoubtedly keep fans engaged as they look forward to more innovative programming and inspiring performances.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Klaus Mäkelä’s musical journey, as the excitement continues to build.