Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs iconic Carmina Burana

In a riveting two-hour concert on Thursday, March 16, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra — led by conductor Osmo Vänskä — moved some audience members to tears with impeccable performances of three works: Jessie Montgomery’s Banner (2014), Einojuhani Rautavaara’s Cantus articus (1972), and Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana (1935-36).

Banner by Jessie Montgomery

The piece Banner by CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Jessie Montgomery opened the show. She calls Banner a tribute and a rhapsody on the theme of the Star Spangled Banner, and her interpretation of the modern day anthem. The performance of this work was an exciting and energetic yet intriguing start to the night.

Cantus articus by Einojuhani Rautavaara

Following the upbeat patriotic rhapsody was the “concerto for birds and orchestra” by Finnish composer Rautavaara. Cantus articus boasts three unique movements: Suo (The Bog), Melankolia (Melancholy), and Joutsenet Muuttavat (Swans Migrating).

In this second performance, the audience reveled in much more complex sounds. The piece started off quite strange and chilling with the shrieks, whistles, and calls of what seemed like various jungle animals amid the orchestra’s music.

These animalistic grunts and wails incited laughter throughout the audience and even in some of the musicians on stage. The noises in Cantus articus, in fact, were recordings of birds taped in the Arctic Circle and the marshlands of Liminka, located in northern Finland. By the third movement, Cantus articus begins to evolve into something quite fantastical and stirring.

Carmina Burana by Carl Orff

To complete the evening, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performed Carl Orff’s enthralling magnum opus Carmina Burana after intermission. For this performance, the symphony was joined by Baritone Hugh Russell, Countertenor Reginald Mobley, and Soprano Joélle Harvey. Accompanying voices comprised of the Chicago Symphony Chorus and Uniting Voices Chicago, formerly known as the Chicago Children’s Choir. Jenny Wong acted as Guest Chorus Director and Josephine Lee filled the role of Artistic Director.

As expected, the symphony and choirs put on an extraordinary performance of the 25 movements in this five-section cantata, mastering an intricate score with flawless syncopation. The opening and closing of the legendary “O Fortuna” was incredibly moving and passionate.

Baritone Hugh Russell performed to perfection with such animation in his movements and facial expressions that roused laughter in several moments across the room. Countertenor Reginald Mobley nailed the iconic performance of “Olim lacus colueram,” the song of the dying swan. And Soprano Joélle Harvey both soothed and wowed the room with such a beautiful voice that could reach the highest notes.

The entire night was one not to forget — read the full program book for further insight on the production as well as the upcoming 2023/2024 season. Those wanting to catch the performance can do so for one more night on Saturday, March 18. Grab tickets for Carmina Burana before it’s sold out.

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