The Black Oak Ensemble, comprising violinist Desirée Ruhstrat, cellist David Cunliffe, and violist Aurélien Fort Pederzoli, has garnered significant acclaim for its latest double album, “Avant l’orage,” featuring French string trios. The album achieved the remarkable feat of reaching #1 on the Billboard Classical Charts in July 2022 and earned a nomination for a 2023 ICMA International Chamber Music Award. Widely praised in both U.S. and international press, including Canada, Finland, The Netherlands, and Germany, the ensemble has been lauded for its “insightful, committed, and masterful performances” and “fierce eloquence.” The group’s innovative and exciting chamber music has been showcased in various prestigious venues globally, from special performances dedicated to human rights in Geneva to sold-out collaborations in Switzerland. As passionate advocates for new works, they have commissioned and premiered compositions from renowned composers and dedicated their debut album, “Silenced Voices,” to Jewish composers lost during the Holocaust. The Black Oak Ensemble, currently ensemble-in-residence at the New Music School in Chicago, also actively engages in educational initiatives, collaborating with various organizations and fostering prize-winning students.

Friday night concert timeline / Concessions for sale, including beer & wine

7:00-8:15 PM concert (no intermission)
8:15-8:45 PM conversation with artists

Kevin Lahvic is a contemporary American artist who has been based out of his studio/gallery in the historic Flat Iron Arts building for the better part of two decades. Known for his warm, rich pallet, uplifting themes, and humorous takes on the human condition, his work is most often described as, “Happy.”

​The Flat Iron, located in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, is a popular destination point for art lovers from around the world. The Flat Iron also hosts a free, building-wide “First Friday” opening each month from 6-10pm. Visitors are invited to explore the second and third floor of this iconic structure and meet the resident artists in the intimate setting of their studios. Each opening is unique, with changing exhibits & guest artists, musical performances, and a wide variety of enriching experiences.

This is part of the Rendezvous Arts Series