Helen Zell, Laura King, Jamey Fadim and Liz Adams
Ghada Albeheary and Justin Breitfelder
A cascade of streamers was released at the conclusion of the Symphony Ball concert.
A stunning cake marked the orchestra’s 125th anniversary.
Mario Wilson and Erika Knierim
Mario Wilson and Erika Knierim
Shelley Ochab and Ruthie Ryan
January 9, 2017 | Parties
The Right Note
Guests reveled in the culmination of Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s yearlong 125th anniversary celebration at the Symphony Ball.
THE PARTY
Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s 125th anniversary celebration reverberated throughout iconic Orchestra Hall, as a packed house enjoyed Riccardo Muti-led performances. A recreation of the orchestra’s first-ever program from 1891 enthusiastically ended the concert, before 600 gala guests, dressed in their black-tie best, strolled down the red carpet into the Palmer House Hilton.
THE PEOPLE
The Women’s Board of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association and event co-chairs Laura King and Jamey Fadim helped host the annual gala, while Jeff Alexander and Helen Zell, president and board chair of the association, respectively, offered a toast to Muti and the CSO.
THE PINNACLE
Trumpets sounded, directing guests from cocktails in the elegant lobby to the ballroom for a three-course meal. Attendees danced and enjoyed a massive 5-foot anniversary cake inside the Grand Ballroom, which had been decorated by Revel Decor. CSOA’s largest fundraiser of the year struck a chord with everyone involved that evening, as the gala raised more than $1.5 million. ‒Ben Rains
Photography by:
