Elgin Symphony Orchestra

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The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) is a professional orchestra based in Elgin, Illinois. It has been described by John von Rhein, the Chicago Tribune's music critic, as "Illinois' second orchestra." Von Rhein named music director Robert Hanson 2003 Chicagoan of the Year, noting that, “The orchestra now tackles the biggest, most challenging works in the repertory and plays them as well as almost anyone….” In 2005, Von Rhein named ESO executive director Michael Pastreich 2005 Chicagoan of the Year, citing his role in creating, "one of the Midwest's most artistically and financially secure regional orchestras."

Maestro Hanson's predecessor at the ESO was grammy-award winner Margaret Hillis, who led the orchestra in the period 1971-1985.

The ESO's current home is the Hemmens Auditorium in downtown Elgin, but as of July 13, 2005, there are plans to study the feasibility of a new $125M concert hall.