Reflections on Six Decades at Ravinia: A Musical Journey Through Time
In the heart of Highland Park, Illinois, lies a treasure trove of memories and melodies for millions of people—the Ravinia Festival. For over ten decades, this iconic venue has been more than just a place for music; it has been a backdrop to the stories of my life and many others. Ravinia has woven itself into the life fabric of my existence, from the rock anthems of my youth to the symphonies that lull my grandchildren to sleep.
The 1960s: A Teenager's Awakening My first encounter with Ravinia was in the summers of the 1960s. I was a wide-eyed teenager, full of dreams and energy. The air was excited as Frank Zappa and Janis Joplin took the stage. Their rock tunes were the soundtrack that spoke to my rebellion, freedom, and youth. Every note and every chord sparked a lifelong love affair with live music.
The 1970s: A New Chapter of Love Fast forward to the 1970s, and Ravinia saw me newly engaged, sharing the magic of live performances with my fiance, now husband of 48 years. Peter, Paul, and Mary serenaded us with their timeless folk harmonies. We danced under the stars, hand in hand, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
The 1980s: Family Ties By the 1980s, Ravinia had become a family tradition. Our children, wide-eyed and curious, experienced their first concerts here. The sounds of Pete Seeger’s banjo and Arlo Guthrie resonated through the park, and our little ones clapped along, their laughter mingling with the music. It was here, surrounded by nature and melody, that our family bonds grew stronger.
The 1990s: Corporate Harmony The 1990s brought company outings and the chance to see Ravinia through the eyes of colleagues and friends. Jazz greats like Wynton Marsalis filled the air with their soulful tunes, creating an ambiance of camaraderie and joy. These outings were more than just events; they were opportunities to connect, unwind, and appreciate the beauty of shared experiences.
The 2000s: A Quiet Symphony In the new millennium, the quiet days of the symphony became my sanctuary. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, with its majestic performances, provided solace and reflection. Each note carried me back through time, a reminder of all the beautiful moments Ravinia had given me.
The 2010s: Nostalgia and Renewal The 2010s brought a delightful blend of nostalgia and renewal. Retro bands like ABBA transported me back to my youth, while the next generation experienced the magic of Ravinia through movie nights featuring scores like "The Lord of the Rings." The park, with its familiar trees and pathways, remained a constant in a rapidly changing world.
A Timeless Sanctuary Now, as I sit under the stars at Ravinia, I see more than just a music venue. I see a timeline of my life, marked by melodies and memories. Each performance, whether rock, folk, jazz, or classical, has added a new chapter to my story.
Ravinia is a testament to the power of standing in one place and truly experiencing life. It shows that inspiration can be drawn from anywhere and that the stories we hold dear are often tied to the places we cherish.
I encourage you to find your own "Ravinia." Find that place that becomes a part of you, where the echoes of the past blend seamlessly with the present. Stand still, listen, and let the music of life tell your story.