Northbrook Symphony and Classical Kids LIVE! perform Beethoven Lives Upstairs on June 12
Northbrook, IL – The Northbrook Symphony invites families to experience the magic of classical music with “Beethoven Lives Upstairs” on Friday, June 12, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Christian Heritage Academy in Northfield. Designed for audiences ages 6 and up, the acclaimed theatrical production combines live orchestral performance with storytelling to introduce young listeners to the life and music of Ludwig van Beethoven.
Presented in collaboration with Classical Kids LIVE!, “Beethoven Lives Upstairs” tells the story of a young boy who discovers that the eccentric composer living in the apartment above him is none other than Beethoven himself. Through letters, humor, and dramatic scenes, audiences learn about Beethoven’s struggles, personality, and extraordinary musical imagination while the Northbrook Symphony performs excerpts from some of his most beloved works, including the “Moonlight” Sonata, Für Elise, and selections from the symphonies. This includes "Eroica" Symphony, which the Northbrook Symphony performed recently on May 31.
The 50-minute performance is designed to engage children and adults alike, blending theater and live music in an accessible and entertaining format. The production has become a favorite among orchestras across North America for its ability to inspire curiosity and foster a lifelong appreciation for classical music. The series creator is Susan Hammond, based on the original work by Barbara Nichol. Directed and produced by Paul Pement, this performance features actors Sarah Cartwright and Thad Avery and conductor Mina Zikri.
“Beethoven Lives Upstairs” is part of the Northbrook Symphony’s ongoing commitment to music education and community engagement, including scholarships for high school seniors, an instrument drive in collaboration with Bravo Waukegan, and complimentary subscription concert tickets for under-18s. General admission tickets for “Beethoven Lives Upstairs” are just $20 and are on sale now at https://www.northbrooksymphony.org/ and by calling (847) 272-0755.
The Northbrook Symphony would like to thank the generosity of our sponsoring partners for this concert: Classical Kids Music Education, Barnaby’s of Northbrook and Bravo Waukegan.
About the Northbrook Symphony
Now in its 46th season, the Northbrook Symphony is dedicated to artistic excellence and engaging performances that resonate with audiences across Chicago's North Shore and beyond.
Founded in 1980 by Samuel Magad, then Concertmaster of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Northbrook Symphony has been under the leadership of Music Director Mina Zikri since 2019.
Tickets are also on sale for "Sound the Horn!," its Annual Benefit on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Sunset Ridge Country Club in Northfield. The evening will celebrate the Northbrook Symphony’s musicians, supporters, and mission to bring live orchestral music to audiences throughout the North Shore community.
