Music of the Baroque brings Handel’s “Hallelujah” to the Chicago River

The Chicago River will metamorphose into an open-air concert hall, as Music of the Baroque presents The Chicago Water Music on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Under the guidance of Dame Jane Glover, the ensemble will grace the “Bright Star” boat, gliding from the Riverwalk East End to Merchandise Mart and back, bringing the grandeur of Handel’s Water Music, selections from Theodora, Vivaldi’s Gloria and Music for the Royal Fireworks to life against a backdrop of Chicago’s illuminated skyline.

As the music unfolds, the “Strong Voices” student chorus will join in, weaving youthful energy into the baroque tapestry. The performance reaches its peak in a citywide chorus: “Hallelujah, Chicago!” invites the public to join a communal singalong of Handel’s famed “Hallelujah” Chorus from Messiah, a moment designed to unite voices along the Riverwalk, on bridges and throughout the city.

Spectators can experience the performance for free from the Riverwalk, bridges and river-adjacent vantage points. But for those seeking an immersive experience on the water, limited Audience Boat tickets are available for $150 each, including access to a complimentary bar.

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Single ticket presales for Music of the Baroque 2025-26 subscribers began on July 25, 2025, with general public sales opening on August 4, 2025, at 10 AM.

Event Details: 

The Chicago Water Music will take place Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, sweeping from the Riverwalk East End to Merchandise Mart, with a reprise between LaSalle and Clark before returning downstream.

Audience Boat tickets cost $150, include a complimentary bar aboard, and offer close-up access to the performance .

How to purchase tickets:

• Subscriber presale began July 25, 2025 at 10 AM—exclusive to Music of the Baroque 2025-26 season subscribers.

• To buy, visit the Music of the Baroque website (particularly the “Chicago Water Music” ticket section) or call Audience Services at 312-551-1414 , baroque.org).