ESO Gala 2026 | A Serenade to the Fox Valley
You are warmly invited to join Music Director Chad Goodman and special guest artists as we celebrate the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s seventy-sixth anniversary.
This year’s Gala features a special ensemble performing timeless tunes in a loving tribute from the ESO to the community that has been our home and inspiration for seventy-six extraordinary seasons.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
The musicians of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and actors of point2pointproductions bring The Hunchback of Notre Dame to life in the Hemmens Cultural Center. Based on the timeless Victor Hugo novel, showcasing music from Disney's Academy-Award nominated 1996 animated film and incorporating new songs by the legendary creative team of Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a live concert-style performance not to be missed.
Holiday Brass and Percussion in Schaumburg
The ESO Brass and Percussion sections come to Schaumburg for a concert of Holiday music including arrangements of The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, Joy to the World, and more!
Chad Goodman, conductor
Holiday Brass and Percussion in Barrington
The ESO Brass and Percussion sections come to Barrington for a concert of Holiday music including arrangements of The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, Joy to the World, and more!
Chad Goodman, conductor
No tickets are required to attend this FREE concert. RSVPs encouraged but optional.
Holiday Brass and Percussion in St. Charles
The ESO Brass and Percussion sections come to St. Charles for a concert of Holiday music including arrangements of The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, Joy to the World, and more!
Chad Goodman, conductor
Elgin Sing-Along Messiah
Embrace the holiday spirit at a community sing-along of selections from Handel’s renowned Messiah!
Started by a group of community members in 2022, the Elgin Sing-Along Messiah is an interactive community sing-along that raises awareness and funding for Elgin charities while showcasing the talent of Elgin-area musicians and vocalists, including the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Midwest Opera Theatre, and members of the Elgin Master Chorale.
Día de los Muertos
Commemorate loved ones at this special event, in partnership with Gail Borden Public Library and the City of Elgin. Vocalist José Carlos Díaz returns, and Elgin’s own BFH once again joins the ESO in this unique collaboration.
Opening Night After Party
Celebrate the start of a dazzling new season!
Right after the concert, join us at the Hemmens’ brand-new reception space for an unforgettable evening with Music Director Chad Goodman and musicians of the ESO.
Open Bar & Seasonal Bites
DJ & Dancing
Dress Code: Festive Flair