Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Joyce DiDonato

Natalie Merchant, ex-lead of 10,000 Maniacs, has released 15 albums, and is known for rich songwriting and collaborations with artists like David Byrne & Mavis Staples. Active in social causes, she's worked with NYSCA and tackled issues like hydraulic fracturing.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, established in 1891 by Theodore Thomas, stands as a top American orchestra, renowned for precision and rich sound. It gained prominence under conductors like Fritz Reiner, who started its recording legacy, and Sir Georg Solti, substantially boosting its global acclaim and record sales. Their works with Mahler and Bruckner became iconic. Solti won the most Grammy Awards of any musician. The orchestra continuously reissues past revered recordings, maintaining its legacy. Recently, artists like Jessie Montgomery and Hilary Hahn collaborated with the ensemble.