Gregory Alan Isakov

“Simple. Straightforward. Utterly evocative” proclaims the Associated Press. Born in South Africa, and now calling Colorado home, horticulturist/musician Gregory Alan Isakov has cast an impressive presence on the indie-rock and folk worlds since releasing his debut album Rust Colored Stones (2003).

Nominated for a Grammy in 2019 for Evening Machines, Isakov is known for his poetic lyricism and hypnotic melodies. No Depression declares, “this is Isakov’s genius. He turns a short poem into a magnificent piece of music that can captivate for hours.” His latest record Appaloosa Bones continues to build upon that genius, creating a richly textured and “gorgeously atmospheric” journey (Sputnik Music) that “glides over elegant and shimmering Wild West mirages” (MOJO).

Since his first collaboration with the Colorado Symphony in 2016, Isakov has performed with national symphony orchestras across the United States, building a sense of grandeur around songs originally written for quiet rooms and open landscapes. The result is a concert experience that feels both intimate and monumental: folk music scaled to cathedral proportions, yet still grounded in Isakov’s quiet, contemplative voice.

In his first performance at Ravinia, Isakov is joined by the Chicago Philharmonic, promising an evening of musical grandeur and intimate storytelling under the baton of Christopher Dragon.