The Grant Park Music Festival has unveiled its eagerly awaited 2025 season, a carefully curated program under the direction of Giancarlo Guerrero. The festival promises an eclectic mix of contemporary compositions and timeless classics, all set against the iconic backdrop of Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Running from June 11 to August 16, this summer's offerings will not only highlight Guerrero’s artistic vision but also celebrate the rich musical heritage of Chicago.

Experience Unprecedented Performances This Summer

A New Era Under Guerrero's Leadership

The arrival of Giancarlo Guerrero as the new music director marks a significant chapter in the festival’s history. His inaugural season is characterized by a bold emphasis on modern American works, reflecting both his personal passion and the festival’s long-standing commitment to innovation. Guerrero’s approach blends fresh perspectives with traditional favorites, ensuring a balanced and engaging experience for audiences. Notably, he conducts eight out of the twenty programs, underscoring his deep involvement and dedication.Guerrero’s first concert on June 18 features Adolphus Hailstork’s “An American Port of Call” and Leonard Bernstein’s “On the Waterfront” suite. These selections, described by Guerrero as “two great American works,” encapsulate the essence of the festival’s mission to showcase the best of American music. Additionally, concertmaster Jeremy Black performs Mendelssohn’s violin concerto, a testament to the synergy between the new conductor and the established musicians.

Contemporary Compositions Take Center Stage

One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 season is the focus on recent compositions. Chicago composer Stacy Garrop has been commissioned to create a piece inspired by the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, adding a unique local flavor to the festival. The orchestra also presents the Midwest premiere of Chelsea Komschilies’ “Mycelialore,” co-commissioned by the festival, on August 13. This work exemplifies the festival’s commitment to supporting emerging talent and introducing audiences to cutting-edge compositions.Several regional and city premieres further enrich the lineup. Rockford-born Jake Runestad’s “Earth Symphony” debuts on June 13, while Clarice Assad’s “Baião N’ Blues” and Arturo Márquez’s “Concierto de Otoño” feature on June 20-21. Henry Dorn’s “Transitions” (July 2-3) and Brian Nabors’ “Pulse” (August 1-2) add more layers to the diverse repertoire. These performances promise to offer listeners a fresh and invigorating musical journey.

Rediscovering Forgotten Masterpieces

In addition to premiering new works, the festival brings to light several pieces that have long eluded Illinois audiences. Peter Lieberson’s “Neruda Songs,” performed by J’Nai Bridges, and Jennifer Higdon’s “The Singing Rooms,” featuring violinist Jennifer Koh, receive their belated area premieres on August 1-2 and August 8-9, respectively. Margaret Bonds’ choral-orchestral “Credo,” despite her strong ties to Chicago, finally gets its due on July 11-12. These rediscovered gems underscore the festival’s role in preserving and promoting lesser-known yet significant works.

Inbal Segev: Artist-in-Residence and Beyond

The festival welcomes Israeli cellist Inbal Segev as its artist-in-residence for the first time since 2023. Segev’s residency includes two consecutive Wednesday concerts: Mark Adamo’s “Last Year” on July 9 and Anna Clyne’s “Dance” on July 16. Both performances reflect the festival’s commitment to exploring climate change through music and showcasing innovative compositions. Segev will also lead masterclasses and potentially perform a solo recital at the Pritzker Pavilion, pending confirmation from the city.

Special Events and Guest Conductors

The season includes special events like the annual “Independence Day Salute” on July 4, featuring principal percussionist Josh Jones and mezzo-soprano Imara Miles. Guest conductors add variety to the lineup, with Andrew Litton opening the season by conducting Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” on June 11. Other notable conductors include Osmo Vänskä on July 2-3 and Keri-Lynn Wilson on July 18-19. Encore performances by soprano Janai Brugger, violinist Augustin Hadelich, and pianist Clayton Stephenson round out the season’s highlights.

Closing with a Grand Finale

The festival concludes with a powerful rendition of Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” on August 15-16, a choral-orchestral masterpiece that has become a beloved tradition. Joining it is Alan Hovhaness’ “Mysterious Mountain,” a symphony that resonates with audiences for its evocative and mysterious qualities. Guerrero’s choice of these pieces reflects his desire to end the season on a high note, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.