Pre-performance reception for Maestro Vladimir Spivakov and Pianist Olga Kern

On Feb. 19, the Moscow Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, which I chair, hosted an elegant pre-performance reception for internationally renowned Russian musicians Vladimir Spivakov and Olga Kern at Symphony Center.

Mr. Spivakov is one of the most acclaimed musicians in the world, especially among Russian musicians. We always eagerly await his return to Chicago.

More than 150 distinguished guests attended the event, held at the Club Room at Symphony Center. Guests enjoyed sparkling champagne in front of a roaring fireplace as the sun was setting on a spectacular view of Michigan Avenue.

Ms. Kern greeted the guests warmly and said it was a delight to meet so many Americans who have a passion for the arts.

After the reception, guests attended the concert at Symphony Center, which featured a varied program that included Brahms’ Violin Sonata No. 3 in D Minor, Stravinsky’s “Suite Italienne,” and works by Pärt and Franck.

Serge Biberman, an attorney with Enterprise Law Group, LLC, said it was wonderful to meet Kern at the reception. “It was especially great because she was there in a very small setting and then 10 minutes later you saw her on stage with one of the most famous violinists in the world,” he said.

The event was sponsored by Dennis S. Gregor; Ameriprise Financial as well as Maestro Artist Management and The Russian American Cultural Heritage Center.

I am so pleased to be able to introduce Russian artists to American audiences. I hope that personal interactions like this help build bridges of support and understanding between our countries.