There’s something magical about live music on a summer evening—especially when it’s free, family-friendly, and performed in one of the North Shore’s most scenic outdoor venues. On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the Evanston Symphony Orchestra returns to Wilmette’s iconic Wallace Bowl for its annual Summer Pops Concert, presented with pride by Optima Verdana®.

This cherished community tradition brings neighbors together for an unforgettable night of music under the open sky in Gillson Park. With no tickets or reservations required, the concert is free and open to all—inviting families, friends, and music lovers to gather and enjoy a joyful celebration of summer and sound.

Eileen Hovey, Optima® Cofounder and CEO, makes opening remarks at the Evanston Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Pop Concert in 2023. Credit: Evanston Symphony Orchestra.

A Spirited and Sophisticated Program
Under the baton of Music Director Lawrence Eckerling, the Evanston Symphony will perform a vibrant and varied program that blends classical elegance with Broadway flair, cinematic power, and Motown soul:

  • Rossini – Overture to The Barber of Seville
  • Strauss Jr. – Artist’s Life Waltzes, Op. 316
  • Tyzik – Hot Soul Medley featuring hits like I Heard It Through the Grapevine, My Girl, Touch Me In The Morning, Reach Out I’ll Be There, and Love Machine
  • Saint-Saëns – Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah
  • Schwartz / arr. Ricketts – Highlights from Wicked including No One Mourns the Wicked, The Wizard and I, Dancing Through Life, Popular, and Defying Gravity
  • John Williams – Theme from Schindler’s List (featuring Julie Fischer, violin)
  • John Williams – Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back
  • Sousa – Stars and Stripes Forever

With iconic crowd-pleasers, lush orchestral works, and a toe-tapping soul medley, the evening promises something for everyone—whether you’re a classical music enthusiast, a Broadway fan, or just looking to enjoy a memorable night beneath the stars.

You can watch and listen to a preview of the Summer Concert from Maestro Eckerling here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXbzwASPDyE

A Beloved Setting with Deep Community Roots
The Wallace Bowl, nestled within Gillson Park, is a treasured open-air amphitheater that has hosted generations of performances since its construction in 1931. Surrounded by trees and located just steps from Lake Michigan, it offers a unique and intimate atmosphere that amplifies the magic of live music.

Presented by Optima Verdana®
Just minutes away from the Wallace Bowl, Optima Verdana® is proud to sponsor this year’s concert as part of its ongoing support of local arts and community engagement. For Optima Verdana® residents, the performance is both a musical event and a celebration in their own backyard.

The concert begins at 7:00 PM, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets for a relaxed evening of entertainment.

Whether you’re discovering the Evanston Symphony for the first time or returning for a favorite summer tradition, this night of music by the lake is not to be missed.

ESO is partnering with Baker Demonstration School, which will provide fun child activities before and during the concert, including an instrument petting zoo.