May Concert
The ESO, the North Shore Choral Society and soloists present Sir Karl Jenkins’ tragic and ultimately life affirming The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace. From the pounding drums suggesting marching armies to the soaring final cello solo, this stirring and ambitious work confronts war’s horrors yet promises peace. Blending texts from the Christian Mass with Islamic calls to prayer, referencing ancient epics, and modern laments, this monumental work delivers visceral rhythms, tribal menace, and transcendent hope. The program begins with a very different and more traditional view of soldiery, Joseph Hadyn’s Symphony No. 100, “The Military.” The Armed Man’s final message of hope is a fitting close to the ESO’s 80th anniversary season.
Musical Insights Free Pre-Concert Preview the Friday before this concert.
Learn How to Attend!
Program
- Haydn
- Symphony No. 100 “Military”
- Karl Jenkins
- The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace
North Shore Choral Society
Tierra Whetstone, Mezzo Soprano
Subscription Series Concerts Venue:
Pick-Staiger Concert Hall
50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston
See map.
Tickets
All tickets are assigned seating.
Please call 847-864-8804 for wheelchair accessible tickets.
Advance Sales
$42 Adult, $36 Seniors, $5.00 Full-Time Student
Children Free
Children 12 and younger are admitted absolutely FREE, but must have an assigned seat.
Please call 847.864.8804 or email tickets@evanstonsymphony.org for all orders with children’s tickets.
At the Door Sales
$47 Adult, $41 Seniors, $5.00 Full-Time Student
2026–2027 SERIES SUBSCRIPTION
Subscribers get first choice of the best seats in the section they desire.
Four-concert Subscription
Regular: $149 Adult, $132 Seniors
Student: $20 — student ID required
Soloist
North Shore Choral Society
Tierra Whetstone, Mezzo Soprano
Musical Insights
Free Pre-Concert Preview Series!
Enhance your concert experience with a sneak preview — Composers come alive and their passions take center stage when ESO Maestro Lawrence Eckerling takes you on an insider’s tour of the history and highlights behind the music.
Series Sponsored by The Merion
May 21, Friday, at 1:30 pm
Merion’s Crystal Ballroom
529 Davis St, Evanston.
FREE and open to the public.
Please RSVP to 847-570-7815.
Light refreshments will be served and casual tours of apartments will be available after the program.