The Chicago Water Music

In 1717, Handel penned his famous Water Music for a boat party on the River Thames. In 2024, Music of the Baroque presents it on the Chicago River for the first time! Dame Jane Glover, the Music of the Baroque Chorus & Orchestra, and the “Strong Voices” Chorus, made up of young musicians from the ensemble’s choral education program in 7 Chicago public high schools, cruise the river performing excerpts from the iconic Water Music, the “Hallelujah” Chorus from Messiah, and more. Come to the Riverwalk and hear Handel’s music reverberating from Chicago’s majestic architecture in a unique, free event celebrating our great Midwest city.

APPROXIMATE SCHEDULE

(Timing and locations are subject to change depending on river traffic)

7:00 PM - Dame Jane Glover and the musicians travel from Riverwalk East End towards Merchandise Mart, performing the program

7:15 PM - Short concert at Merchandise Mart

7:45 PM - Short concert between LaSalle and Clark streets

8:15 PM - The return journey to Riverwalk East End begins