Celebrating Delaney Baeza — Accepted into the CSO’s Young Composers Initiative!

We are beyond proud to announce that Delaney Baeza (Music ‘26) has been selected for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Young Composers Initiative — an incredibly competitive and inspiring program that champions the next generation of musical voices!

Delaney is one of only five young composers chosen from across the Chicago region to participate in this year’s cohort.

Delaney is one of only five young composers chosen from across the Chicago region to participate in this year’s cohort. Her acceptance into the program is a testament to her creativity, dedication, and extraordinary potential as a composer, and to the skillful instruction of her composition teacher, Jesse Langen. We could not be more thrilled to cheer Delaney on! 

The Young Composers Initiative is a dynamic and mentorship-driven program hosted by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Negaunee Music Institute. Led by esteemed composer and former CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Jessie Montgomery, the initiative empowers high school-aged composers to craft original chamber music. Selected participants work closely with Montgomery and professional musicians from the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, developing their pieces throughout the season. The experience culminates in a world premiere performance at Symphony Center in spring 2026 — a thrilling opportunity for young artists to hear their music brought to life on a professional stage.

Image courtesy of Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Being selected for this initiative is no small feat — especially given the rigorous application process and competitive nature of the program. Delaney now joins a vibrant community of emerging composers who will hear their music performed at Symphony Center next spring. 

In addition to this great honor, Delany has also been awarded the Young Creators Fellowship with ~Nois Quartet! This fellowship is only awarded to two winners and will result in the students’ work premiering on the ~Nois DISCOVERY Series concert in June.

Congratulations, Delaney!