Side by Side with the Chicago Philharmonic at the Obama Presidential Center

SIDE BY SIDE with the Chicago Philharmonic!

Chicago Philharmonic
Scott Speck, Artistic Director & Principal Conductor
And YOU!

Monday, July 27
John Lewis Plaza, Obama Presidential Center
6001 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637

Rehearsal: 4:30 PM
Performance: 6:45 PM

Note: This event has reached capacity for musician participation. Sign up for the event waitlist here.

About the Event

For the first time ever, Chicago Philharmonic brings its flagship Side by Side program to the John Lewis Plaza of the Obama Presidential Center.

Since 2013, this free outdoor tradition has drawn hundreds of musicians ages 8-85+ from around the country to perform alongside the world‑class musicians of the Chicago Philharmonic. On July 27, 2026, community musicians are invited to bring their instruments for a free rehearsal led by Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Scott Speck, culminating in a summer‑evening concert shared on the plaza. Listeners are warmly welcomed to enjoy the music and the architecture of the newly opened Obama Presidential Center.

What is Side by Side?

Side by Side with the Chicago Philharmonic is our flagship community engagement program, designed to make orchestral music more accessible and participatory. Musicians from across the city of all ages and levels come together to perform a full symphonic program in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

The result is a shared musical experience that builds connection and brings high-quality performance into the heart of the community.

The Chicago Philharmonic’s performance is supported in part by U.S. Bank.