The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is a musical force in Chicago that provides approximately 200 performances and events a year. The orchestra includes approximately 100 musicians who play strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion instruments. Classical, jazz and special concerts are among its programs. In 1890, the first meeting for the incorporation of the Chicago Orchestral Association was held at the Chicago Club. Within a year, the Orchestra conducted its inaugural concert with Theodore Thomas as its first conductor. At the end of the 20th century, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra opened ECHO, its interactive learning center for children. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs at Symphony Center.