Chicago Philharmonic Sound Walks:
Take a walk on the sonic side!
Chicago Philharmonic and the Chicago Park District bring you a curated “sound walk” playlist. Put your headphones on and immerse yourself in the sounds of our city!
The following playlists have been curated by The Chicago Philharmonic Society, and are presented by the Chicago Park District – Night Out in the Parks.
For more information on our nature trails, please visit us at: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/nature
Palmisano Park
Enjoy this playlist as you explore the striking landscapes of Palmisano Park. Once a quarry and landfill, this Southwest Side park is now home to native prairie grasses, scenic overlooks, and peaceful wetlands—a powerful example of renewal in the heart of the city. This playlist is designed to energize your walk and connect you with the park’s dynamic blend of nature and history. Highlights include music from our performances of “Whiplash” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas”—two thrilling film scores that showcase our orchestra’s ability to push boundaries and bring cinematic music to life. Let the sounds inspire you as you move through this remarkable urban oasis.
Overture – From “Whiplash” – Justin Hurwitz
“Overture” by Justin Hurwitz sets the tone for the high-energy world of Whiplash, with sharp rhythms and dramatic tension that mirror the film’s intensity. Listening to “Overture” while walking through Palmisano Park in Chicago adds a cinematic edge to your nature experience. Whether you’re climbing the limestone steps, wandering the trails, or pausing by the wetlands, this track brings momentum and excitement to your journey. If you like what you hear, come see “Whiplash” live with musical accompaniment by the Chicago Philharmonic this fall, on September 13, 2025, tickets can be found at:
Overture – (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
Spooky, whimsical, and instantly iconic, Danny Elfman’s Overture from The Nightmare Before Christmas sets the scene for a delightfully eerie journey through Halloween Town. The swirling strings and playful dissonance offer a soundtrack that feels both magical and mysterious—perfect for a walk through the unexpected landscapes of Palmisano Park. As you explore rocky overlooks and quiet wetlands, let this piece guide your imagination from fall leaves to fantastical worlds.
Love the music? Experience the full film live in concert with the Chicago Philharmonic on October 25, 2025 at the Auditorium. Costumes welcome—this is Halloween, after all!
Tickets and details:
https://chicagophilharmonic.org/events/nightmare-before-christmas/
Palmisano Park
Once a bustling limestone quarry, Palmisano Park is now a peaceful 27-acre green space in the Bridgeport neighborhood. The site features dramatic hills, wetlands, native prairie plantings, boardwalks, and striking views of the Chicago skyline—making it a unique blend of urban history and natural beauty.
For this playlist, we drew inspiration from some of the stunning and imaginative pieces performed by Chicago Philharmonic musicians in recent seasons. As you explore the winding trails or take in the sights from the hilltop overlook, enjoy a carefully curated musical experience designed to complement the park’s layered and reflective atmosphere.
Palmisano Park is located at 2700 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608. For more info visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/palmisano-henry-park
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What Our Fans and Critics Are Saying
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