The Godfather: Chicago Symphony Orchestra

“Symphony Center makes movie and music fans an offer they can’t refuse…” the description began. Well, I thought, I am a movie and a music lover, what's the offer? “A live screening of Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpiece The Godfather with Members of the CSO playing Nino Rota’s score.” Well that certainly turned out to be an offer I could not refuse. And when I found a deal for it, I certainly knew I was in for a great night of entertainment.

The Vibe

The Godfather Live drew an array of people to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Center. There were older couples, young couples (like myself and Myron), groups of friends, and even entire families. I did not see anyone dressed up too much – a few sparkly accessories on the ladies and nice sweaters to keep out the cold. Some women wore heels, but most preferred boots to navigate the wintery snow and slush outside. Many of the men wore slacks or khakis, with a few donning suit jackets and ties. In a nutshell, patrons kept it classy, while staying warm.

The Lobby Photo from cso.org — The Lobby
Photo from cso.org

The Movie

The Godfather is a long movie. We were warned by the ushers of the length of the first half (90 minutes), and many people used the time before the show to empty their bladders. Our seats were on the main floor, a few chairs in from the aisle with an excellent view of the movie screen suspended above the members of the orchestra.

My excitement doubled and my heart rate quickened as the lights dimmed and the conductor walked out to begin the night. For anyone reading this who has not seen The Godfather, I urge you to watch at your earliest convenience. For those that already have, you know that it is called by many one of the greatest films. Of course, the movie did not disappoint. I was so engrossed in the movie that time flew by and before I knew it, it was intermission. The second half was as amazing as the first, and all too soon it was time to head back out into the cold.

The Music

What made this viewing of The Godfather so special though, was the music. The musical score of any movie has the power to change the entire feeling of a scene, and Nino Rota's score is no exception. In fact, the music is as iconic as the movie itself. It was truly magical to be able to see the musicians playing what I normally would only be hearing. At times, I found myself watching the members of the orchestra instead of the movie, in awe that they were so perfectly executing the score.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra did an incredible job with this event. The choice of movie and the performance by the orchestra were both perfect. I was thoroughly impressed and had a fantastic time. It can be intimidating for young people to go to the symphony I think, but being able to see a movie while enjoying live music is an excellent way to invite people of all ages to come enjoy a night at the symphony.

The Deal

I Spent: ~~$105~~ $70

I Got: A Main Floor Ticket to The Godfather Live, music by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Want to watch a movie with live music performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

Upcoming movies include:

2001: A Space Odyssey – Friday, March 13, 2015 at 8:00 PM ($60, almost sold out!)

Metropolis – Friday, May 29, 2015 at 8:00 PM ($49 – $89)