Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Black Music, Heritage, and Performers
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops Orchestra have unveiled details of their 2025-2026 season, including an extensive lineup of programs catering to African American audiences. Guests can enjoy shows with music from Whitney Houston, African American folklore, and influential African American artists, as well as live performances from Nas and The War & Treaty. Events will sell out quickly; get tickets today!
Upcoming Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Events featuring Black music, vocalists, violinists, dancers, and conductors
Brahms & Schumann
March 6 & 7
Music Hall (OTR)
Black pianist and rising classical star Clayton Stephenson takes center stage in this romantic program, led by Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée. The inaugural Nina Simone Piano Concerto Competition winner opens the evening with Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2, delivering a richly expressive dialogue between soloist and orchestra that balances sweeping grandeur with intimate lyricism. The program continues with Schumann’s Symphony No. 4, an electrifying work infused with romantic passion and a vivid journey through struggle, reflection, and triumph.
Classical Roots
March 28, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
For over two decades, Classical Roots has been a Cincinnati community staple celebrating the rich legacy of African American music. JMR leads an inspirational program that will light up your heart and bring you to your feet. The program features guest artists violinist Randall Goosby, soprano Jacqueline Echols, and tenor Roderick Dixon, together with the Classical Roots Community Choir and members of the Nouveau program.
Stravinsky’s Firebird
April 24 – April 25
Music Hall (OTR)
Music Director Cristian Mӑcelaru, the CSO, and expert puppeteers and dancers from Janni Younge Productions come together in this sonic and theatrical depiction of The Firebird, which builds to a dramatic, fiery finish. Mahler’s unfinished tone poem Totenfeier opens the program—a deeply introspective and intense experience that ultimately developed into the opening of his monumental Resurrection Symphony.
The Music of Star Wars
May 1 – May 3
Music Hall (OTR)
Travel to galaxies far, far away as the Cincinnati Pops performs the best music from across the Star Wars universe by John Williams, Michael Giacchino, and Ludwig Göransson. From “The Imperial March” to “Rey’s Theme,” you’ll hear music from the Skywalker saga films, the TV series, and more. May the Force be with you! The Music of Star Wars will be brought to life under the baton of acclaimed Black conductor Damon Gupton.
Beethoven & Tchaikovsky
May 8 – May 9
Music Hall (OTR)
Jennifer Higdon’s brief but striking fanfare sets the tone before Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto opens with a commanding, majestic flourish, instantly igniting a sense of awe. After a moment of lyrical reverie that seems to suspend time, the music propels forward with irrepressible joy and optimism.
In contrast, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 delves deep into the human experience, embodying the struggle between fate and the quest for happiness. From its powerful brass fanfare—fate’s ominous call—to the electrifying energy of the finale, the symphony is a deeply cathartic journey through anguish, resilience, and eventual exhilaration. Beethoven & Tchaikovsky will be brought to life under the baton of acclaimed Black conductor Roderick Cox.
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About the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is an American orchestra based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its primary concert venue is Music Hall. In addition to its symphony concerts, the orchestra gives pops concerts as the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. The Cincinnati Symphony is the resident orchestra for the Cincinnati May Festival, the Cincinnati Opera, and the Cincinnati Ballet.
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Related Article: Need more Symphony Events? Visit our calendar to discover the whole season.
Music Hall Venue Information
Parking
Near Music Hall, there is a 450-space underground garage, surface lots, and on-street parking. Use the Cincy EZ Park App to pay for parking as appropriate. Take the Cincinnati METRO to the venue.
Accessibility
The accessible entrance is located on the southeast side of the building, facing Elm Street. Please ask a Music Hall usher or staff member for additional assistance or directions.
Prohibited Items
Music Hall restricts bag sizes to 12 inches x 12 inches for your safety. A staff member can make an exception for individuals with medical necessity. All bags and jackets are subject to inspection upon entry.
View a list of prohibited items.
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