The program features the world premiere of a suite by Katherine Bostic (who was the Sinfonietta's first resident composer); a Sinfonietta-commissioned work by Joel Thompson, one of the "Blacknificent 7" collective of today's brightest voices in composition; and the great "New World" Symphony by Antonín Dvoák.
The performances honor the legacy of Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a Black Chicago surgeon who performed the world's first successful open-heart surgery in 1893. A founder of Provident Hospital, the first Black-owned hospital in America, his legacy reminds us all, as Dr. King did, that opening hearts is a social mission, and in Dr. Williams' case, a medical miracle as well.
Dr. Williams' groundbreaking surgery took place mere months before Antonin Dvoák premiered his Ninth Symphony, "From the New World." Inspired by his travels here in America, Dvoák infused African American spirituals, Native American themes, and folk melodies into this grand work, which he felt represented the true heart of the U.S. and its musical roots. Heard among today's voices, the piece becomes part of an evolving conversation about who defines American music and whose stories are finally being heard.
"This program is near and dear to all of us at Chicago Sinfonietta, because it speaks to the heart of our mission," said President and CEO Sidney Jackson. "As Dr. King created community wherever he went, so too does this orchestra. As a diverse group of talented musicians that reflects the diversity and creativity of our home in Chicago, our mission has stayed constant for more than two decades. With our performances, especially these 'Open Heart' concerts, we celebrate that legacy with open arms to our community as we honor some of those who came before us."
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of compassion and community service, Chicago Sinfonietta staff will spend time on Jan. 19 volunteering at the Pilsen Food Pantry, supporting food distribution, organizing donations, and uplifting their neighbors in need in a continuation of their partnership.
Chicago Sinfonietta's 2025-26 season features three remaining subscription programs, each performed in a distinguished Chicago venue-Studebaker Theater, Mandel Hall, The Auditorium, Harris Theater, and Pick-Staiger Hall-and in Naperville at Wentz Auditorium at North Central College. Other events and initiatives include the Freeman Fellowship program, monthly community performances, and much more.
Subscriptions and tickets for all events can be purchased via the website.