The Chicago Water Music

In 1717, Handel penned his famous Water Music for a boat party on the River Thames. On September 18, 2024, we presented 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, cruised the river performing excerpts from the iconic work, the “Hallelujah” Chorus from Messiah, and more. Thousands joined from the Riverwalk and along the bridges to celebrate Chicago as the city's majestic architecture reflected Handel (and Vivaldi's) triumphant tunes.

View the program book

Music of the Baroque is grateful for the support of The Negaunee Foundation, Sipi Metals Corp., and Nancy Dehmlow in presenting The Chicago Water Music.

Music of the Baroque proudly presented The Chicago Water Music in anticipation of Navy Pier's Chicago Live! on September 21 & September 22, 2024

The general route we took up and down the river

Photos from the trial run

What you might see and hear from the Riverwalk

The "Strong Voices" Chorus will join us on the boat!

Photos: Elliot Mandel Photography