Russian Masters

Pilgrim Chamber Players opens its 29th anniversary concert season on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at 3 PM at the Highland Park Community House (1991 Sheridan Road) with RUSSIAN MASTERS featuring Chicago Symphony Orchestra violinist Matous Michal, cellist Steven Honigberg, and pianist Joseph Yungen performing works by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Sergei Rachmaninov, and Dmitri Shostakovich.

Mr. Honigberg and Mr. Yungen begin the program with music that spans lyricism, passion, melancholy and virtuosity including Tchaikovsky’s Valse Sentimentale (1882) and Souvenir d’un lieu cher (1878), followed by Rachmaninov’s Vocalise (1915), Andante from the Cello Sonata in G minor, Op. 19 (1901), and Shostakovich’s Largo from the Cello Sonata in D minor, Op. 40 (1934). Michal then joins Honigberg and Yungen for a performance of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 50. Written in memory of Tchaikovsky’s close friend and mentor, Nikolai Rubenstein, the work is by turns brooding, intensely personal, and in turn gloriously expansive. The Trio’s inescapable Russian spirit, sweeping melodies, and extraordinary emotional range make it one of Tchaikovsky’s most compelling works.

General admission tickets are Adults $20, Students $10, and include a post-concert reception. Tickets may be purchased online at pilgrimplayers.org. For more information or to join the mailing list, email info@pilgrimplayers.org or visit pilgrimplayers.org.

ABOUT PILGRIM CHAMBER PLAYERS

Pilgrim Chamber Players has brought world-class chamber music to Chicago’s North Shore for 29 years, presenting exceptional musicians in intimate concert settings. The organization is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the community through carefully curated programs and outstanding performances. Cellist Steven Honigberg, a Highland Park native and Juilliard graduate, now serves as Artistic Director.

Remaining 2026-2027 concerts include:

Sunday, January 31, 2027 — JOHN YEH PRESENTS CLARINET QUINTETS
Sunday, March 21, 2027 — STARS OF TOMORROW
Sunday, May 2, 2027 — PAPA HAYDN & BEETHOVEN
Sunday, June 13, 2027 – (Season Finale) FROM BACH TO FRANCK

 All concerts are held at 3 PM at Highland Park Community House, 1991 Sheridan Road, Highland Park.