Ravinia 2026 Issue 1

Taking the stage alongside the global superstars at Ravinia’s grand reopening concert on July is one very special utist—and no, we’re not just talking Lizzo. Kaylee Johnson, now , began her musical journey with Reach Teach Play’s Sistema Ravinia orchestra program in fourth grade, learning from instructors who gently encouraged and greatly inspired her to pursue her passion. is led her to the highly competitive Chicago High School for the Arts, and next up, the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University, to which she was awarded a full scholarship. Speaking to Ravinia previously, Kaylee praised her Sistema Ravinia instructors as great role models “always willing to put in the extra time to make sure I’m at my best.” It’s what Ravinia’s talented, empathetic music teachers have been doing since Reach Teach Play launched Sistema—an intensive orchestral music education program serving Chicago and Lake County public schools—in . Kaylee’s performance with Lizzo on July is particularly special, as it entwines Ravinia’s emphasis on the importance of music education with Lizzo’s own dedication to that mission. “When I was young, I struggled to t in,” Lizzo, , recently told CBS Mornings . “But playing the ute helped me nd my voice. I want … to teach every young person out there that your passion can give you purpose, belonging, and lead you on a journey to ful ll your wildest dreams.” MEET FLUTIST KAYLEE JOHNSON “When I was young, I struggled to fit in, but playing the flute helped me find my voice.” —Lizzo OCTOBER 16, 2021 MARCH 4, 2022 Learn more about Reach Teach Play: RAVINIA.ORG • RAVINIAMAGAZINE 35