Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Samara Joy

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.

Bronx native Samara Joy, immersed in classic R&B and church gospel, won the 2019 Sarah Vaughan Jazz Vocal Competition. Her jazz journey includes breakthrough LPs "Linger Awhile" and "Portrait," showcasing lyricist talent with music by Mingus and Sun Ra. Co-produced with Grammy-winner Brian Lynch, she's emerging as a standout jazz vocalist.