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.
Alumni Orchestra
Step back onto the stage of Mandel Hall! Previous members of the USO are invited to perform as part of a special alumni orchestra at the May 9 and 10, 2026 concerts in Mandel Hall. Alumni interested in performing should fill out the form linked below. Additional information will be sent in advance of the alumni orchestra rehearsal on Friday, May 8, 2026.
Honor Barbara Schubert’s Enduring Legacy: Support the University Symphony Orchestra Endowment
Join us in celebrating the remarkable dedication and visionary leadership of Barbara Schubert by helping us elevate the University Symphony Orchestra Endowment Fund to $500,000.
Your contribution will empower Barbara’s dream for the USO to flourish for generations to come. The Endowment fuels the excellence of the University Symphony Orchestra by:
- Continuing the USO signature programming of major symphonic literature alongside unexpected, lesser-known works
- Welcoming renowned guest performers and collaborators
- Supporting essential needs such as rehearsal spaces, unforgettable performance locations, instrument upgrades and maintenance, and community programming
With your generosity, we can ensure the USO continues to thrive as a beacon of artistic achievement and creative expression at the University of Chicago—today and for the future.
Make a lasting impact. Invest in Barbara’s vision and the future of the USO.
To make your gift, please donate here, or contact Anastasia Schriber (Senior Associate Director of Advancement) at aschriber@uchicago.edu or 773-702-9243 if you would like to explore how to make a larger impact for the USO.
