South Side Sisters, Sounds, and Stories: A Night Out At The Park

South Side Sisters, Sounds, and Stories returns to Chicago's South Side as part of Night Out in the Parks. Presented by Àkójọpọ̀ Music Foundation, the event celebrates the musical legacies of Black women composers while exploring cultural connections across Black America and the Caribbean.

This year's edition expands beyond last year's focus by highlighting the Black  American and Caribbean women composers through instrumental music, storytelling, and cultural exchange. Through live music and storytelling, the event highlights cultural connections between Africa, Chicago’s South Side, and the Caribbean. Southside Sisters continues to uplift the stories, sounds, and impact of Black women in music, offering an engaging community experience rooted in history, culture, and performance.

Whether you're a longtime classical music enthusiast or a newcomer, this event is sure to resonate. Celebrate the enduring impact of Black women in classical music and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Chicago’s South Side.

Experience an unforgettable evening where music, dance, multimedia, and storytelling come together to spotlight the extraordinary works and lives of these trailblazing composers. This vibrant, under-the-stars program of tunes and tales goes beyond the traditional concert experience, featuring engaging moments such as audience sing-alongs and thoughtful historical and musicological reflections.

This event is presented by Àkójọpọ̀ in partnership with the Chicago Park District, with support from the Chicago Community Trust, the Driehaus Foundation, the Prince Charitable Trusts and the Puffin Foundation.