Chicago Sinfonietta Work Samples

Chicago Sinfonietta and Maestro Mei-Ann Chen, Conductor
Enigma Variations – Variation IX: Nimrod by Edward Elgar
Performed: 05/11/19
Relationship: This selection shows off the lyrical prowess of all sections of the Sinfonietta. The quiet opening to the full tutti ending illustrates our dynamic range and emotional richness as an ensemble, and it’s an exemplary performance of our masterful interpretation of the Romantic repertoire.
Cue Information: 0:25-4:25
Length of Sample: 4 minutes


Chicago Sinfonietta and Maestro Mei-Ann Chen, Conductor
Nhanderú by Clarice Assad (Chicago premiere)
Performed: 10/05/19
Relationship: This selection showcases extended techniques and body-percussion effects by all sections of the orchestra to depict the specific imagery of a storm. It also highlights our percussion section, our mastery of complex rhythms, and our storytelling abilities.
Cue Information: 4:17-8:17
Length of Sample: 4 minutes


Chicago Sinfonietta and Guest Conductor, Kellen Gray
The People Could Fly by Trevor Weston (Chicago premiere)
Performed: 01/20/19
Relationship: This piece shows the Sinfonietta’s ability to add narrator/theatrical elements to our performances. It speaks to our narrative and emotive abilities, as well as to our adventurous programming and our emphasis on social justice.
Cue Information: 13:05 – 16:30
Length of Sample: 3 minutes 25 seconds


Chicago Sinfonietta and Maestro Mei-Ann Chen, Conductor
Sevdah Medley by Ilya Levinson
Performed: 03/02/19
Relationship: This selection shows off a wide variety of styles and showcases each of our sections (esp. the woodwinds). Shows we can play in styles outside of the standard rep and emphasizes our commitment to representation of many different cultures in our programming.
Cue Information: 0:05 – 4:05
Length of Sample: 4 minutes


Chicago Sinfonietta and Maestro Mei-Ann Chen, Conductor
Ellis Island by Peter Boyer
Performed: 09/22/2018
Relationship: This is the dramatic conclusion to a massive work that showcases our integration of theatrical elements into our performances with a hugely satisfying ending.
Cue Information: 41:35-45:35
Length of Sample: 4 minutes