Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5, perhaps the best known and most regularly performed of all the composer’s works, glorifies the human spirit — “praising the free and happy man — his strength, his generosity, and the purity of his soul,” as the poet Carl Sandburg once described the piece. “I cannot say I chose this theme,” Prokofiev confessed. “It was born in me and had to express itself.”

Hear the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in this masterwork of 20th century repertoire when it performs Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5 under guest conductor Charles Dutoit in concerts April 6-11. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.