The Department of Music is proud to celebrate a truly extraordinary milestone: 50 remarkable years of Barbara Schubert’s inspiring leadership of the University Symphony Orchestra. For half a century, Barbara’s unwavering passion and visionary dedication have shaped the USO, alongside generations of students, staff, faculty, and community members, transforming UChicago’s Performance Program into an inclusive, vibrant, and thriving community.
Our celebration begins on December 6, 2025, with the Chicago premiere of Daniel Pesca’s recent piano concerto, Up North, by the University Symphony. On February 28, 2026, the USO presents a new commission by acclaimed composer Shawn Okpebholo, with violin soloist Heather Wittels.
Opus 50 culminates with a full weekend of events on campus, May 8-10, 2026, including a USO alumni mixer, a side-by-side performance by alumni and current musicians in the USO, a Sunday afternoon picnic, and more.