COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Many of you have reached out expressing concern for our 50th anniversary season—thank you! Below are answers to questions we have been asked in recent weeks. Please call (312) 551-1414 if you need more information. To read Executive Director Declan McGovern's most recent update about the 2020-21 season, click here

Will the season start as scheduled on September 13?

On August 3, Executive Director Declan McGovern announced that due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, MOB’s 50th anniversary season will start in January 2021 and consist of 6 programs running through June. Complete details are available here. We will continue to follow any and all directives set by federal, state, and local authorities. We are actively considering multiple scenarios that take into account social distancing and the safety of audience and musicians, as well as our ability to livestream the concerts for subscribers who are not ready to return to the concert hall.

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I have renewed or purchased a subscription for the 50th anniversary season. How does the restructured season affect my subscription?

All subscribers were sent a letter at the beginning of August with details about the changes to the season. This communication included a form for patrons to choose their new concerts and all patrons were given the option to donate, exchange for house credit, or receive a refund for any remaining balance. The form is available online here
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Why should I renew or subscribe now if the season may change?

We understand that these are uncertain times and making commitments in the future may feel counterintuitive. If you join us as a subscriber, your support will help us plan and make decisions in the months to come. Subscribers also receive priority seating, which will be especially important as we take into account the possibility of reduced venue capacity due to social distancing. As with the April/May 2020 concerts, all 2020-21 ticketholders will be given the option to donate tickets, exchange for house credit, or receive a refund if we are forced to cancel programs.

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If social distancing guidelines are in place once concerts begin, will that affect my seating assignments?

As part of our planning to follow through on our 50th season, Music of the Baroque is currently exploring adjusting our seat maps to accommodate any social distancing guidelines and/or capacity limitations. As always, the best way to ensure priority seating is to subscribe.

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If I personally don't feel safe attending concerts in person, can I still hear the concerts?

Music of the Baroque is exploring the option of making our concerts available exclusively to subscribers at home through live video broadcasts.

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Will Baroque in the Park take place as scheduled in September?

Due to the city's June 9 announcement of the cancellation of all events through September 2020, this year's BitP will not take place. We are working with the City of Chicago to reschedule this Millennium Park event in 2021.

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What about the annual gala benefit on October 23 at the Fairmont Chicago?

Music of the Baroque's annual gala benefit, "A Musical Feast", which had already been rescheduled from May 29, will now be “Baroque Beautiful—An At-Home Gala.” Featuring performances by MOB ensemble members and other special guests, “Baroque Beautiful” is MOB’s first-ever virtual gala. More details will be available in September.

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How I can support Music of the Baroque and its staff and musicians at this time?

The best way to support Music of the Baroque at any time is to subscribe to our 50th season and make a donation. Your commitment to Music of the Baroque right now will allow us to continue to support our musicians, pay our staff, and remain optimistic, strong, and resilient as we face this challenging time together.

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