Ravinia Preview: Sept. 8-11

Ohlsson Plays Liszt
While Handel’s works aren’t as vast as J.S. Bach, they are some of the most delightful pieces ever constructed, including the second of the Eight Great Suites of 1720, which ends with one of the most thrilling fugues of the 18th century.  Garrick Ohlsson on piano harnesses an infectious rhythm, and continues his set by recreating the demanding keyboard works of some of the greatest 19th and 20th century composers. 
Thursday, September 8 at 8pm
Martin Theatre
Tickets $10 to $60

Afiara Quartet
Winner of the Concert Artists Guild International Competition, the Young Canadian Musicians Award, top prizes at the Munich ARD International Music Competition and the Banff International String Quartet Competition, the all-Canadian Afiara String Quartet is one of the most celebrated groups ever assembled. They bring a new insight into the classic musical genre and their assemblies are a breath of fresh air. Come see what the American Record Guide calls a set that “completely changed my pulse, breathing, and inner rhythms.”
Friday, September 9 at 6pm
Bennett Gordon Hall
Tickets $10 

Momix
Momix kicks off its first of three performances Friday night and they are sure to be something you’ve never seen before. Described as a “Transformer”-like performance of visual illusions and physical mutation, Momix continues their tradition of theatrical dance that dates back to the 19th century. They continue their trend into the 20th century with such ensembles as Mummenschanz and Pilobolus.  Based on the unfolding of the seasons, Momix’s show with blow audiences away.
Friday, September 9 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 10 at 11 a.m.
Saturday, September 10 at 8 p.m.
The Pavilion
Tickets $5 to $45

Liszt for Violin
Violinist Giora Schmidt, a protégé of (also a one-time Ravinia performer), masterfully creates a performance that bridges the two sides of the “War of the Romantics” in what reconciles the conservative approach of Berlin and Leipzig with the progressive Weimar radicals. Joined by Noam Sivan on piano, the program exudes such imagination, audiences will be clung to the edges of their seats.
Saturday, September 10 at 6pm
Bennett Gordon Hall
Tickets $10

John Hiatt and the Combo
Sunday night proves to be an epic night for Ravinia fans as John Hiatt and the Combo take the stage to round out the weekend. Joined by special guest Big Head Todd and the Monsters, these musicians know how to get an audience going. Combing rock with smooth lyrics and twangy strings, John Hiatt is one of the most prolific musicians of our time. The Los Angeles Times calls him “one of rock’s most astute singer-songwriters of the last 40 years.”  Sunday night is sure to be a night to remember for all Ravinia goers.  
Sunday, September 11 at 7 p.m.
The Pavilion
Tickets $22 to $55

Tickets and details can be found at www.ravinia.org.