Concerts and Events
The RSO’s mission is to enlighten, educate, and entertain. Our many concerts and events throughout the year support this mission. Scroll through and find the ones that inspire you!
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Tickets to RSO performances and events can be purchased:
At one of our Box Offices
(NO additional fees)Over the phone at 815.965.0049
(Subject to credit card fees and postage)
Online via Ticketmaster
(Subject to additional Ticketmaster fees)
View more info about purchasing tickets including Box Office hours, Discounts, Return Policies, and more here.
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Elevate your experience and save when you subscribe to multiple concerts. Flexible options available!
August Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore musical themes, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
2026/27 Season Preview Concert
This FREE concert, presented in a casual atmosphere, will provide information about RSO programming and the benefits of season tickets, introduce our new Kids Club, and offer the opportunity to test out subscription seats.
September Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
SoundBites with Philippe Quint
Join us for a conversational interview between RSO Music Director Yaniv Attar and violin soloist Philippe Quint, along with a brief question and answer session!
The Planets
The 2026/27 Season begins with a journey through the cosmos with Holst’s The Planets, virtuosic violin showpieces, and energy of the Shostakovich Festive Overture.
October Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
The Music of John Williams
Experience the adventure, heroism, and storytelling of the unforgettable music behind countless Hollywood masterpieces.
RSYO Fall Chamber Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
November Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
SoundBites with Joel Ross
Join us for a conversational interview between RSO Music Director Yaniv Attar and Nielsen Chorale Artistic Director Joel Ross, along with a brief question and answer session!
Mozart Requiem
The Nielsen Chamber Choir joins us to present a timeless choral masterpiece filled with drama, mystery, and transcendent hope.
RSYO Fall Orchestra Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
The Nutcracker 2026
Join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on their magical journey through the dazzling Land of Snow and the enchanting Kingdom of Sweets.
December Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
Holiday Pops 2026
This annual Holiday tradition is filled with joy, merriment, and all your favorite Holiday tunes. Perfect for the whole family!
Holiday Pops 2026 Matinee
Matinee: This annual Holiday tradition is filled with joy, merriment, and all your favorite Holiday tunes. Perfect for the whole family!
January Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
SoundBites with Chaeyoung Park
Join us for a conversational interview between RSO Music Director Yaniv Attar and piano soloist Chaeyoung Park, along with a brief question and answer session!
February Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2
Experience one of the most icon works for piano and orchestra. With sweeping romance and breathtaking virtuosity, Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 captivates audiences with passion and beauty.
March Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
RSYO Spring Chamber Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
April Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
SoundBites with Jessica Choe and Christopher Guzman
Join us for a conversational interview between RSO Music Director Yaniv Attar and piano soloists Jessica Choe and Christopher Guzman, along with a brief question and answer session!
Carnival of the Animals
Featuring lush orchestral textures and audience favorites. This vibrant concert overflows with color, energy, and charm.
RSYO Spring Orchestra Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
May Kids’ Musical Storytime
Each month, professional musicians will join the RPL library staff to explore a new musical theme, introduce children to real instruments, and foster an early love for reading and music.
SoundBites with Amit Peled
Join us for a conversational interview between RSO Music Director Yaniv Attar and cello soloist Amit Peled, along with a brief question and answer session!
Pines of Rome
The 2026/27 Season concludes in fiery passion and grandeur. Featuring a newly commissioned cello concerto with returning guest Amit Peled.
America 250 Celebration
A grand celebration to honor the founding of our nation 250 years ago. Enjoy a pre-concert outdoor street party with food trucks, family-friendly activities, and local performers starting at 4pm
SOLD OUT - Lake Geneva House Concert
SOLD OUT
Exclusive House Concert featuring RSO Principal Keyboard Joel Ross in a captivating solo recital performance, showcasing his artistry in an up-close and personal setting.
Encore! Broadcast (America 250)
Tune in to this one-hour broadcast featuring excerpts from America 250
America 250
The season concludes with a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Ranging from the pioneers of the American sound to two of today’s acclaimed composers, the evening showcases the rich and diverse heritage of American music.
RSYO Spring Orchestra Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
Encore! Broadcast (From Fate to Triumph)
Tune in to this one-hour broadcast featuring excerpts from From Fate to Triumph
From Fate to Triumph
Experience the musical brilliance of Beethoven and his influence on future generations of composers. From classical to contemporary, this performance explores the universal themes of fate and triumph.
SoundBites with Julie Thomas
In this special SoundBites, Yaniv and Julie will reflect on the rich past of the RSO and its bright future.
Piano Masterclass with Benjamin Pasternack
Presented by the RSO and the MPAC Adult Piano Group
Donor Exclusive: Open Rehearsal 4.15
Donor Exclusive: Overture level and above donors are invited to join us for an open rehearsal
RSYO Spring Chamber Concert
Featuring the award-winning Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra in concert with conductor Linc Smelser.
Encore! Broadcast (Night at the Movies)
Tune in to this one-hour broadcast featuring excerpts from Night at the Movies
Melodies at the Museum
We return to the Rockford Art Museum to weave together music and art. Signature pieces from RAM’s permanent collection will be on display, with RAM’s Executive Director and Chief Curator Carrie Johnson offering context on the visual art.
Night at the Movies
Walk the red carpet under the Coronado stars for an evening of symphonic works from Academy Award®-winning films.
Fireside Music 3.11.26
with Rachel Handlin, RSO Assistant Concertmaster and Mike Beert, RSO Principal Cello
Fireside Music 3.7.26
with Joel Ross, RSO Principal Keyboard; Ken Stein, Saxophone; Ed Bogdonas, Drums
Fireside Music 3.4.26
with Rachel Handlin, RSO Assistant Concertmaster; Mike Beert, RSO Principal Cello; Scott Metlicka, RSO Principal Flute
Fireside Music 2.25.26
with Scott Metlicka, RSO Principal Flute; Erin Mashinter, RSO Oboe; Dominic Dagostino, RSO Flute
Encore! Broadcast (Love… It’s Complicated)
Tune in to this one-hour broadcast featuring excerpts from Love… It’s Complicated
Gems of Film Composers
Discover the lyrical, bold, and surprising chamber works of composers better known for their unforgettable film scores. Performed by strings and winds, this intimate program brings their hidden gems to life in vibrant, cinematic color.