Fred Hersch

Experience an extraordinary meeting of two jazz titans at Ravinia Pavilion, the legendary open-air venue nestled in the heart of Highland Park, Illinois. Fred Hersch, widely celebrated as one of the most lyrical and inventive pianists of his generation, joins forces with the incomparable vocalist Kurt Elling for two unforgettable evenings on June 7 and 8, 2026. Together, they represent the pinnacle of contemporary jazz artistry, blending Hersch's luminous harmonic sensibility with Elling's richly textured baritone and improvisational genius. Ravinia's iconic pavilion provides the perfect canvas for this intimate yet expansive musical encounter. Whether you settle into the covered pavilion seating or spread a blanket on the beloved lawn under the summer stars, the atmosphere is quintessentially Ravinia — sophisticated, relaxed, and alive with the magic of world-class performance. The natural acoustics and lush park surroundings elevate every note into something deeply memorable. These two performances promise to be highlights of the Ravinia summer season. Hersch and Elling share a rare musical chemistry — spontaneous, deeply communicative, and emotionally resonant — ensuring that no two nights will sound quite the same. Whether you're a devoted jazz aficionado or simply seeking a sublime summer evening, this is an experience not to be missed.