CSO Celebrates Spring with Schumann, Goldmark and Mahler

Barenboim, Stock and Reiner lead the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a concert of Romantic classics.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:00pm

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The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is welcoming spring with a concert program featuring works by Robert Schumann, Carl Goldmark and Gustav Mahler. Conductor Daniel Barenboim will open the show with Schumann's 'Spring Symphony', followed by Goldmark's 'In Springtime' led by Frederick Stock. The broadcast will conclude with Mahler's 'Das Lied von der Erde', conducted by Fritz Reiner and featuring vocalists Maureen Forrester and Richard Lewis.

Why it matters

The CSO's spring concert is an annual tradition that celebrates the changing of the seasons through the lens of Romantic-era composers. The program showcases the orchestra's versatility in tackling a range of musical styles, from Schumann's lush, melodic symphony to Mahler's more experimental and introspective song cycle.

The details

The concert will open with Schumann's 'Spring Symphony', a work that captures the energy and renewal of the season through its bright, uplifting themes. Next, the CSO will perform Goldmark's 'In Springtime', a tone poem that evokes the sights and sounds of the natural world awakening. The program will conclude with Mahler's 'Das Lied von der Erde', a profound and deeply personal work that reflects on the cycle of life.

  • The concert will take place on April 5, 2026.

The players

Daniel Barenboim

An acclaimed conductor and pianist who has served as the music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra since 2006.

Frederick Stock

The CSO's principal conductor from 1905 to 1942, known for championing the works of contemporary composers.

Fritz Reiner

A renowned Hungarian-American conductor who led the CSO from 1953 to 1963, renowned for his interpretations of Mahler's music.

Maureen Forrester

A celebrated Canadian contralto who was a frequent soloist with the CSO and other leading orchestras.

Richard Lewis

A British tenor who performed extensively with the CSO and other major ensembles throughout his career.

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What they’re saying

“Mahler's 'Das Lied von der Erde' is a true masterpiece of the Romantic era, and we're honored to bring it to life with such a talented group of artists.”

— Daniel Barenboim, Music Director, Chicago Symphony Orchestra

“The CSO's spring concerts are always a highlight of the season, and this program promises to be a real treat for classical music fans.”

— Lisa Simeone, Radio Host

What’s next

Tickets for the April 5th concert are on sale now through the CSO's website and box office.

The takeaway

The CSO's spring concert showcases the orchestra's versatility and commitment to bringing the Romantic repertoire to life, offering audiences a chance to experience the beauty and power of works by Schumann, Goldmark and Mahler.