On January 24, Chicago Philharmonic participated in a historic moment at the United Center as the Chicago Bulls retired Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey. The ceremony followed the Bulls’ buzzer‑beater victory over the Boston Celtics and drew a sold‑out crowd, with many braving subzero temperatures to witness the celebration of one of Chicago’s most influential athletes. The program was also streamed live to viewers around the world.
Derrick Rose, born and raised in Chicago, holds a distinctive place in the city’s cultural landscape. His jersey retirement places him among an elite group of Bulls legends, joining Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, Michael Jordan, and Scottie Pippen. As the banner was raised, the moment underscored Rose’s lasting connection to the city and its fans.
Chicago Philharmonic opened the ceremony with a newly orchestrated version of “Sirius,” arranged specifically for the event. As Rose emerged from the tunnel, the orchestra performed Derrick’s Theme, an original composition commissioned by Chicago Philharmonic and written by Michael Moritz for this occasion.
Throughout the evening, tributes from former teammates, coaches, and Bulls alumni highlighted Rose’s impact on the franchise and the city. Chicago native Keke Palmer delivered the National Anthem, and the After School Matters Choir joined Keith Harris of the Black Eyed Peas and Chicago Philharmonic for One of One, an original song by Harris with orchestration by Moritz.
With the Rose family at center court, the countdown began. The banner was unveiled and No. 1 took its place in the rafters. The timing aligned precisely with the start of One of One, marking the moment Rose’s number officially became part of Bulls history.
The orchestra’s ensemble for the ceremony included:
Jeff Yang, Electric Violin
Olya Prohorova, Electric Violin
Joshua Zajac, Electric Cello
Christian Dillingham, Electric Bass
Steve Roberts, Electric Guitar
Jim Widlowski, Drumkit
Kuang-Hao Huang, Keyboard/Synths
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