In our communities

ESO musicians are an integral part of the community, sharing the gift of music with tens of thousands of people each year with free community and education programs. Special connections with our community include:

  • Free Community Concerts

  • The Elgin Symphony Orchestra offers free performances throughout the Fox River Valley during the year in schools, houses of worship, healthcare facilities, parks, and other public spaces. This year we featured free concerts at the Juneteenth Festival and in Gifford Park on July 4th.

  • Check this page for upcoming community events.

  • Stay connected with us through social media.


Listener’s Club

These FREE discussions take place at public libraries during the week before ESO concert weekends. Presented by our Music Director Chad Goodman and Assistant Principal Second Violin Robbie Herbst, come and learn about the music that will be presented in the next concerts with the Elgin Symphony.

Our Presenters:

Chad Goodman is a wealth of knowledge and excitement that extends well beyond the podium. As Music Director, Chad works tirelessly to program engaging and diverse programs for each concert, so our Listener’s Club is the perfect chance to hear how these programs come together. As the conductor, there is incredible depth and understanding of each work that Chad will have prepared and will able to share along with unique insights and interesting facts you may not hear elsewhere!

Robbie Herbst, along with being our fantastic Assistant Principal Second Violin, is also an accomplished presenter and author. Having degrees in both history and music performance, Robbie provides an informed and engaging perspective on the background and artistry of the classical world. From him you can expect a rich and comprehensive presentation of classical music, both old and new.


Upcoming Listener’s Club Events

Gail Borden Public Library

270 N. Grove Ave.
Elgin, IL 60120
847-742-2411

Presented the Wednesday before Classics concert weekends from 12 - 1 PM

September 25, 2024

November 6, 2024

January 22, 2025

February 26, 2025

April 2, 2025

April 30, 2025

Barrington Area Library

505 N. Northwest Highway
Barrington, IL 60010
847-382-1300

Presented the Tuesday before Classics concert weekends from 1 - 2 PM

September 24, 2024

November 5, 2024

January 22, 2025

February 25, 2025

April 1, 2025

April 29, 2024