DuPage Symphony Orchestra Brahms and Beyond at Wentz Concert Hall

The DuPage Symphony Orchestra opens its 2026-27 season with Brahms and Beyond on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 7:30 PM at Wentz Concert Hall, on the North Central College campus in downtown Naperville. The program pairs works by contemporary Native American composers with Johannes Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major, performed by pianist Jonathan Mamora.

Whether you’re a longtime classical fan or simply looking for a refined night out, this season opener pairs new voices with the Brahms concerto the DSO calls magnificent, in a hall the DSO describes as acoustically wonderful and modern, just blocks from downtown dining and Naperville’s Riverwalk.

A Season-Opening Night in Downtown Naperville

Wentz Concert Hall sits at 171 East Chicago Avenue, a few blocks from downtown restaurants and the 1.75-mile Riverwalk, which the DSO suggests for a pleasant stroll before or after the concert. The DuPage Symphony Orchestra was founded by Dr. Russell Harvey in 1953 and gave its first concert in 1954 in Glen Ellyn. Today it is a highly accomplished, all-volunteer community orchestra of 90+ musicians, and 2026-27 marks its 73rd season.

Why You Can't Miss DuPage Symphony Orchestra Brahms and Beyond at Wentz Concert Hall

The first half of the program features works by contemporary Native American composers Tonya Wind Singer and Brent Michael Davids, framed by tributes to the artistic heritage of Indigenous North Americans by Edward MacDowell and Curt Cacioppo. Pianist Jonathan Mamora, whom the DSO calls internationally renowned, then caps the evening with Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major. The 2026-27 season also celebrates 40 years of artistic leadership by Maestra Barbara Schubert, the DSO’s music director and conductor since the 1986-87 season.

The DSO publishes a season-wide single-ticket price range rather than a separate price for each concert: balcony tickets range from $12 to $57 and main floor tickets from $12 to $51 throughout the 2026-27 season. Single-ticket prices may increase as the concert date approaches, and groups of 10 or more may receive a 15% discount by calling 630.778.1003.

What to Expect

DSO season concerts typically last about 90 minutes to 2 hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Each season concert includes a lobby experience with a cash bar offering beer, wine, soda and water for purchase, and a Preludes and Interludes group of regional musicians may perform in the lobby before the concert and at intermission.

• All-volunteer community orchestra led by Maestra Barbara Schubert
• Season concerts typically run about 90 minutes to 2 hours with one intermission
• Easy tie-in with a pre- or post-concert stroll along the Riverwalk or dinner in downtown Naperville

Plan Your Visit

Parking near Wentz Concert Hall is in high demand on weekends, so plan ahead. Street parking is available around North Central College, and the DSO lists free parking garages within walking distance, including the Chicago (Central) Parking Facility at 65 E. Chicago Ave. and the North Central College Parking Facility at 415 S. Brainard St. Valet parking is available for season concerts for a modest fee.

• Arrive at least 20 minutes early; seating in the hall opens about 30 to 35 minutes before the concert, and latecomers may wait in the lobby until a suitable pause
• Children are welcome, though the DSO notes that standard-length evening concerts may be challenging for small children
• Accessible seating is reserved for patrons with disabilities and their companions; for other accommodations, email patronservices@dupagesymphony.org or call 630.778.1003
• Buy early at dupagesymphony.org for the best selection and pricing; the DSO does not offer refunds, but tickets can be exchanged for another concert (based on availability) or donated back with at least three days’ notice

Don’t miss this chance to hear live orchestral music close to home. Get your tickets and make Brahms and Beyond part of your Saturday night in Naperville.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• When: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 7:30 PM
• Where: Wentz Concert Hall
• Address: 171 East Chicago Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540, United States
• Admission: Season-wide single-ticket range of $12 to $57 (no per-concert price published)
• Organizer: DuPage Symphony Orchestra
• Phone: 630.778.1003
• Tickets / info: Get details

Dates, times, and pricing can change. Confirm the latest details on the official event page before making plans.

Looking for more? Explore other things to do in Naperville or browse the full Naperville events calendar.