The world reknown Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) will perform a free community concert in Cicero at 7 pm on January 14 in Morton East’s Chodl Auditorium as part of its citizen musician series.

Morton East High School’s historic Chodl Auditorium seats nearly 3,000 people and has a massive 70- foot by 30-foot stage — making it a perfect location for the event.  (Chodl is on the national registry of historic places.) Maestro Muti will conduct Ludwig Van Beethoven’s No. 5 and No. 8 symphonies.

One special part of the concert is that the students at Morton East High school were asked to perform in the choir and assist with technical aspects and running of the concert.

This is a professional undertaking.  CSO tickets usually cost over $100 this time of year — especially with Muti conducting.  The event had many logistical challenges including planning a VIP pre-show meet and greet with food, marketing to the community, parking and lobby logistics, as well as finding and setting up dressing rooms for orchestra members, choir members, special guest performers and Maestro Muti.

“(Music director) Brian (Toms) did a tremendous job organizing and being a liason between the world famous conductor Maestro Muti, symphony staff and the school,” said Morton Alternative School principal Erin Kelly.

The first time the CSO played Chodl was several years ago.  This is the second time they are putting on a performance there. To reserve your free ticket, scan the bar code in this article.