Ravinia 2026 Issue 1

FRESH SPARK MarinAlsop breathes vital breeze across the Chicago Symphony Orchestra ’s 90th Ravinia summer BYWYNNEDELACOMA ONE OF THE GREAT PLEASURES of witnessing Marin Alsop’s six-year tenure as Ravinia’s Chief Conductor has been the unpredicted breadth of her interests. Simply programming standard repertoire in standard formats has never held much interest for her. But amid the variety, it’s possible to define a typical Marin Alsop Ravinia season. Introducing audiences to ex- ceptional young soloists? Bringing a bit of pop-star magic to Chicago Sympho- ny Orchestra concerts? Exploring the intersections of classical music, jazz, and blues? Partnering with other Chica- go-area groups? Premiering new works? Digging deep into CSO specialties? All of the above will be available during Alsop’s six concerts July 11–August 1 that open the CSO’s 2026 Ravinia season. The first CSO concert of any Ravin- ia season is always festive, but July 11’s performance carries special weight. Not only does it open the orchestra’s 90th season at Ravinia, but it’s the 60th year of the annual gala benefit hosted by the festival’s indefatigable Wom- en’s Board. More important, it will RAVINIAMAGAZINE • JULY 11 – JULY 19 , 2026 18 KYLEDUNLEAVY/RAVINIA