Riccardo Muti Leads CSO in Hindemith and Dvořák

Maestro Muti conducts Mathis der Maler and New World Symphony in Chicago concert

Mar. 29, 2026 at 11:00pm

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On this week's episode of the WFMT radio program, Music Director Emeritus for Life Riccardo Muti leads the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Paul Hindemith's Mathis der Maler symphony and Antonín Dvořák's New World Symphony. The broadcast also features a vintage recording of three pieces by Isaac Albéniz conducted by Fritz Reiner, as well as the Overture to Der Zigeunerbaron by Johann Strauss, Jr. led by Maestro Muti.

Why it matters

Riccardo Muti's return to the CSO podium is always a highly anticipated event, as the renowned Italian conductor has had a long and storied career leading the orchestra. Hindemith and Dvořák are two major 20th century composers whose works are cornerstones of the classical repertoire, making this an important program showcasing the CSO's artistry.

The details

The concert program features Hindemith's Mathis der Maler symphony, which was inspired by the German Renaissance painter Matthias Grünewald. Dvořák's New World Symphony, one of the most popular and frequently performed symphonic works, will also be performed. In addition, the broadcast includes a vintage recording of three pieces by Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz conducted by the legendary Fritz Reiner, as well as the Overture to Der Zigeunerbaron by Johann Strauss, Jr. led by Muti.

  • The WFMT radio broadcast airs on March 29, 2026.

The players

Riccardo Muti

Music Director Emeritus for Life of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, renowned Italian conductor.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

One of the premier orchestras in the United States, based in Chicago.

Paul Hindemith

Influential 20th century German composer, whose Mathis der Maler symphony is featured on the program.

Antonín Dvořák

Renowned Czech composer, whose New World Symphony is a cornerstone of the classical repertoire.

Fritz Reiner

Legendary Hungarian-American conductor who led a renowned recording of works by Spanish composer Isaac Albéniz.

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What they’re saying

“Riccardo Muti's return to the CSO podium is always a highly anticipated event, as the renowned Italian conductor has had a long and storied career leading the orchestra.”

— Lisa Simeone, Host

The takeaway

This concert program showcases the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's artistry and the continued legacy of renowned conductors like Riccardo Muti, while also highlighting important 20th century composers whose works have become cornerstones of the classical canon.