The most evocative and emotionally bracing songs share a common, extra-worldly dimension: when words and music were put together, something of the writer’s psyche was plucked out of time to be re-created in performance. But that moment of clairvoyance is not simply spirited away and waiting to be invoked by voice or instrument. This program, curated by Graham Johnson, pierces the veil with insightful commentary on the life events surrounding the moment of composition, the story the underlying poetry is telling, or the threads between other familiar work by the writers—all paired with the songs themselves in performances shaped to share the closer connection.

This program is part of the Ravinia Steans Music Institute 2023 festival season.

Reserved Seats: $15