Klaus Mäkelä Led Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The conductor performed Shostakovich's Fourth Symphony at the newly rebranded Chicago Symphony Center.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Classical
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Conductor Klaus Mäkelä led the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Shostakovich's Symphony No. 4 on September 24, 2026. The concert marked the first time the ensemble has played the piece in nearly two decades.
Why it matters
The performance highlights the technical ambition of the orchestra as it undergoes a period of organizational transition. The ensemble is currently integrating a new visual identity, including a updated red logo and the rebranding of its home venue as the Chicago Symphony Center.
The production featured an augmented orchestra requiring nine French horns and eight percussionists for the hour-long work. Shostakovich completed the symphony in May 1936, though it did not receive its premiere until 1961.
The players
Klaus Mäkelä
The 30-year-old conductor is set to become the full-fledged artistic director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 2027.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
This major American ensemble is based in Chicago and recently introduced a new red logo and facility branding.
The details
Mäkelä navigated the symphony's complex tempo changes and transitions while managing the emotional intensity of the piece. The performance served as a preview of the conductor's leadership before he assumes his role as full-fledged artistic director.
Timeline
May 1936: Shostakovich finished the score of Symphony No. 4.
1961: The piece received its first public premiere.
September 24, 2026: Klaus Mäkelä conducted the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
October 8-10, 2026: The orchestra will present Belshazzar's Feast.
Fall 2027: Klaus Mäkelä will become full-fledged artistic director.
Industry Dynamics
This performance signifies a shift in programming strategy as the institution modernizes its branding under new leadership. The return of large-scale, complex orchestral works suggests an intent to challenge both the ensemble and its audience during this transitional period.
Attendees can expect to see updated branding and venue signage throughout the newly named Chicago Symphony Center. Future programming will continue to feature the artistic direction of Mäkelä as he prepares for his permanent leadership role in 2027.
The takeaway
The return of a long-dormant symphony highlights a move toward more demanding programming for the ensemble. Listeners interested in the orchestra's future should look for upcoming performances throughout the 2026 season.
What happens next
Klaus Mäkelä and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra are scheduled to present performances of William Walton's oratorio Belshazzar's Feast from October 8 to October 10, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the latest local performances, visit Classical.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
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