Founded in 1979 by Lawrence Block, an attorney who serves as co-principal cellist and general manager, the mission of the Highland Park Strings is to provide community concerts free of charge where families, friends and North Shore neighbors can gather for an afternoon of musical enjoyment at the highest level featuring top-notch soloists, many from the Chicago Symphony and others from the world stage. For 28 years, Francis Akos held the post of Music Director and Conductor in an inspiring collaboration until his elevation to emeritus status. He is succeeded by Francesco Milioto as Principal Conductor.
Composed primarily of accomplished amateur chamber musicians, ensemble members derive the greatest pleasure from rehearsing and performing music together “for the love of it.” Thanks to the support of the Park District of Highland Park, augmented by funds raised from an annual benefit concert, Y.E.A.! Highland Park and the ongoing generosity of individual donors and businesses, the policy of free admission is sustained despite rising costs.
The Strings have become a cultural institution on the North Shore and remain the “little miracle in Highland Park,” described so aptly by the Chicago Tribune many years ago.
 Akos Steps Down as Strings Conductor
Francis Akos, Music Director and Conductor of the Highland Park Strings for 28 years and former Assistant Concertmaster of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, delighted his Strings fans at the final concert of the 2006-2007 season in his dual role of conductor and violinist. He led Haydn’s Symphony No. 43 and performed the violin part in Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in collaboration with CSO artists Jennifer Gunn, flute, Eugene Izotov, principal oboe, and Chris Martin, principal trumpet. A gala reception in his honor followed the performance.
On behalf of the entire ensemble, Larry Block presented Ak, as he is affectionately called, with a crystal violin mounted on a crystal base inscribed in gratitude with his dates of service and his new title of Music Director and Conductor Emeritus.
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