Chicago Sinfonietta’s annual tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., titled “Open Heart,” will be held on Sunday, January 18, at the Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville, and again on Monday, January 19, at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago. Both performances begin at 4 p.m.

The event will showcase the world premiere of a suite by Katherine Bostic, who previously served as the Sinfonietta’s first resident composer. Also featured is a piece commissioned by the Sinfonietta from Joel Thompson, a member of the “Blacknificent 7,” a group of prominent contemporary composers. The program will also include the iconic “New World” Symphony by Antonín Dvořák.

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The concerts pay homage to Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a pioneering Black surgeon from Chicago who performed the first successful open-heart surgery in 1893. As a founder of Provident Hospital, the first Black-owned hospital in the United States, Dr. Williams’ achievements echo Dr. King’s message of social progress, while also highlighting his own medical triumph.

Dr. Williams’ historic surgery occurred just months before Antonín Dvořák debuted his Ninth Symphony, “From the New World.” Drawing inspiration from his American travels, Dvořák incorporated African American spirituals, Native American motifs, and folk tunes into the symphony, aiming to capture the essence of American music. Today, this piece engages in the ongoing dialogue about the origins and evolution of American music and the voices that are finally being acknowledged.

“This concert series is incredibly meaningful to everyone at Chicago Sinfonietta, as it embodies the core of our mission,” said Sidney Jackson, President and CEO. “Dr. King was known for building communities wherever he went, and our orchestra aims to do the same. As a diverse ensemble reflective of Chicago’s rich cultural tapestry, our commitment has endured for over two decades. Through performances like ‘Open Heart,’ we embrace our community and honor those who paved the way for us.”

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of compassion and community service, Chicago Sinfonietta staff will spend time on Jan. 19 volunteering at the Pilsen Food Pantry, supporting food distribution, organizing donations, and uplifting their neighbors in need in a continuation of their partnership.

Chicago Sinfonietta’s 2025-26 season features three remaining subscription programs, each performed in a distinguished Chicago venue-Studebaker Theater, Mandel Hall, The Auditorium, Harris Theater, and Pick-Staiger Hall-and in Naperville at Wentz Auditorium at North Central College. Other events and initiatives include the Freeman Fellowship program, monthly community performances, and much more.

Subscriptions and tickets for all events can be purchased via the website.