Music of the Baroque Brings Handel to the River with ‘The Chicago Water Music’ Concert
CHICAGO – One of the city’s most atmospheric musical experiences is returning to the river. On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Music of the Baroque will present The Chicago Water Music, a live classical concert floating down the Chicago River aboard a performance boat — and the entire city is invited to sing along.
Handel on the Water — With a Chicago Twist
Conducted by Dame Jane Glover, the ensemble will perform selections from Handel’s “Water Music,” “Music for the Royal Fireworks,” and other iconic works. This year’s performance includes a new feature: “Hallelujah, Chicago,” a moment when the audience on land and aboard other boats will be encouraged to join in a citywide singalong of the Messiah’s “Hallelujah Chorus.”
The orchestra and chorus will perform from the Shoreline Sightseeing boat “Bright Star”, cruising from Ogden Slip past Merchandise Mart and further along the river. The music will be amplified so listeners along the Chicago Riverwalk, nearby bridges, and on the water can hear the performance clearly.
A Free Event, with Premium River Access
While the concert is free to attend from public viewing spots, fans can also purchase tickets to join an Audience Boat that sails alongside the musicians. These premium seats are priced at $150 per person, which includes onboard seating and complimentary drinks.
- Presale: Opened July 25 for Music of the Baroque subscribers
- General sales: Begin August 4, along with individual tickets for the group’s full 2025–26 season
Young Voices, Big Impact
Students from Music of the Baroque’s Strong Voices program — which supports choral education in under-resourced Chicago schools — will also take part in the performance. The program operates in neighborhoods like Englewood, Chatham, and Pullman, offering students a rare opportunity to sing alongside professional musicians in a major city event.
Music Meets the Riverfront Skyline
The Chicago Water Music is more than a concert — it’s a full sensory experience that merges the city’s waterways with timeless music and community engagement. From classical fans to casual passersby, this one-night event transforms the city’s downtown into a floating concert hall.
“This is a way to hear Handel’s music as it was meant to be heard — outdoors, on the water, and shared with a city,” said Glover. “There’s nothing like it.”
Are you planning to catch this unique concert on the river? Let us know where you’ll be watching from — the Riverwalk, a bridge, or on board — and tag us with your photos after the show at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.