All Good Things Must Come to an End

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Jessica Di SantoI can’t believe summer is almost over. I can’t believe Marsh Symphony on the Prairie is ending. But I do believe that we will see the 100,000th patron enter those Conner Prairie gates this weekend.

In 2009, we celebrated with Debra Fleetwood, as she was the lucky 100,000th patron to arrive.

If patron number 100,000 walks through our gates (we think on Thursday evening), it will be the third time in history that we have achieved that feat.  What helped bring us to this magic number? Amazing crowds at this year’s Fourth of July concerts, amazing crowds at the Classical Mystery Tour (Beatles) weekend, amazing acts like Marvin Hamlisch, the John Denver tribute band and the Duke Ellington Orchestra, amazing performances of Pictures at an Exhibition and Tchaikovsky’s Fifth by our own Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and amazing weather (only a handful of weather-related delays and one rainout—knock on wood for this weekend!).

Symphony on the Prairie is more than an attendance number. As we close out the series this weekend, I thought I would reflect upon some highlights this summer.

A debut and an adieu
On July 23 & 24, singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile debuted with the Indianapolis Symphony and performed many of her hits to a large crowd of adoring fans. After the concert, we said adieu to ISO Associate Conductor Sean Newhouse. Sean moved to the east coast and now serves as an assistant conductor with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Bravo Sean!

Sean Newhouse

Up, Up and Away
Our very own ensemble-in-residence Time for Three performed their signature genre-bending mix of music for their thousands of devoted fans.  Afterward, the boys went on a Conner Prairie balloon ride—they don’t seem to have stage fright…but do I sense a little fear of heights? 
 

It was a Thriller, for sure
Brent Havens, creator and conductor of the Michael Jackson Tribute show and other orchestrated rock tributes such as Pink Floyd, Queen and Led Zeppelin, hit a homerun by including wonderful orchestrations of the King of Pop’s greatest hits. I’ve never seen that many people dancing at Symphony on the Prairie.  One patron noted that she left “ticked off that I never got to see [Michael Jackson] in concert for real and I’m convinced no one else will ever come close to being as spectacular as he is/was.” Another patron sent in this message:  “This was a wonderful event. The ISO and the band that performed were excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed this concert. I love live music!”

He got what he asked for!
After joking about the large amount of insects buzzing around his head on stage, prolific American songwriter Marvin Hamlisch was given several bug repellent options at intermission from his fans—everything from spray, sticks, gels to bug repellant jewelry.  During the second half of Marvin’s concert, our very own Principal Librarian Mike Runyan made us all weep when he played the theme from Schindler’s List on harmonica.

Photographs also tell the story
I don't need to go on and on with highlights in writing.  I can also tell a story in pictures.  Here are some of my favorite photos from this season at Symphony on the Prairie.

The Classical Mystery Tour

Time for Three's setlist

Dancing at Time for Three

First to arrive at Prairie

A 50th Anniversary



Principal Tuba Tony Kniffen

Don’t forget!  The Music of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper on September 2 & 3 and the every-popular River City Brass on September 4 & 5.  See you one final time at the Prairie!

Musician Picks: Day 4

Thursday, August 26, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Jessica Di Santo

We're now at Day 4 of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's single ticket launch. The "biggies" are going quickly as we imagined--Josh Bell, Liza Minnelli, Bugs Bunny, Andre Watts and Pink Martini. And we continue to ask our musicians--which classical, pops or special concert would you recommend a person (either a newbie or a veteran) experience this season? 

Bob Goodlett, Assistant Principal Contrabass:
"I would recommend Mahler's 5th Symphony. It has such monumental emotional substance. In addition, I'm looking forward to seeing soloist Barnabas Keleman play Sibelius' Violin Concerto.  He's a past Gold Medal Winner of the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis. It's always a pleasure to hear him perform."

Jill Boaz, horn:
"My pick is definitely Beethoven's 9th Symphony. Simply put, I love the "Ode to Joy."

What would you pick?  Feel free to comment!

More Favorite Concerts

Wednesday, August 25, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo
Jessica Di SantoSingle tickets for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's 2010-2011 season went on sale two days ago, and I'm delighted to see there are some early birds out there trying to catch the worm. Tickets are flying for Joshua Bell, Wayne Brady, Bugs Bunny at the Symphony, Pink Martini, Mahler 5 and the incredible Liza Minnelli.

But there are so many more gems to pick from. So I asked our Principal Trombone, Jim Beckel...what classical, pops or special concert would you recommend purchasing, now that the Indianapolis Symphony's concerts are on sale?

In Jim's words...

Jim Beckel"For me, the best music is the music that inspires. The ISO is doing several great works, including Shostokovich's 5th Symphony on April 7, 8, and 9 with Arild Remmereit. At the point that Shostokovich created this symphony, he was under great duress from Stalin, demanding that he write music "for the people."  This symphony is an incredible journey through the threatening of the human spirit to the exoneration of the freedom of the human spirit in a truly inspired work. 
 
Similarly, Sibelius' 2nd Symphony, performed on April 1 and 2 with Mark Wigglesworth is truly inspirational, one of the greatest symphonies ever written.
 
Also, Mahler 5 on Nov. 5 and 6, with Juarj Valcuha conducting, is a great introduction to Mahler for the new patron.  It is one of his more mature works that features the brass in a great orchestration.
 
June 17 and 18 with Raymond Leppard - Beethoven's 9th - one of the most inspirational pieces ever written, featuring the "Ode to Joy" theme.  For me, this work is truly uplifting.  When Beethoven wrote this work, he had totally lost his hearing and knew that he was at the end of his life, and yet he writes a work of thanks for life itself."

A CHALLENGE & SOME SPECIAL CONCERTS

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by Paul Berns
Paul BernsHi Everyone:

As I am enjoying some time off from playing (Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra musicians are on vacation--though Symphony on the Prairie is still going strong. I saw Duke Ellington last Saturday night - talk about "smooth!").

Today, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra concert tickets went on sale to the general public. I was looking at next year's ISO schedule and I thought, exciting, exciting, exciting! I do hope you consider coming to many of our concerts this season.  And please think of inviting some members of your local high school orchestra, band, or a wonderful marching band.

Here are some of the concerts that I believe these kids would really love and many of the marching bands and drum corps are drawing from classical orchestral music.  Here are my favorite concerts for next season:

Nov. 5 and 6 = Mahler 5
Nov. 19 and 20 = Wagner die Meistersinger conducted by an orchestra favorite Maestro Wigglesworth

Jan. 21 and 22 = Berlioz Symphonie Fantastique. Hear our "church bells" - often we percussionists play 10-foot tall chimes on stage and sometimes authentic "church bells" off-stage

ALSO...
The Indianapolis area is home of some of the finest marching bands in this country.
  Avon (directed by Jay Webb, my former university student), Carmel (my son marched in that great group), the Lawrence High Schools, Center Grove, can't forget Chad Kohler's great percussionists at Fishers High School, Beech Grove (up and coming), Ben Davis, and many more.  How about organizing an outing! Student rates are very reasonable.

That is it for now, my student Kyle from Lafayette just arrived.

Have a terrific day.

Paul Berns

So much to choose from!

Friday, August 20, 2010 by Dinah Montgomery
Dinah MontgomeryEven though we musicians have just begun our vacation, I'm already looking forward to our exciting 2010-2011 season! Starting Monday, Aug. 23, you can begin purchasing single tickets to next season's Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra concerts. What would I recommend? Choosing just one favorite concert is too difficult, so I have pared it down to 3. There is just so much to choose from!

I have always loved Beethoven's Violin Concerto!  This wonderfully talented and innovative musician was suffering the loss of his hearing and yet he created this exuberantly joyful work.  Add to this, to hear it performed by Midori puts it right at the top of my recommendations of concerts not to miss!   This will be in the set of concerts opening the Lilly Classical Series on October 7-9 with Juanjo Mena returning to conduct.

Any concert by Andre Watts should not be missed!  He presents such a wide range of colors from subtle to powerful, and he's chosen Beethoven's Emperor Concerto - could it get any better?  We have to wait until January 20-22, 2011 for this series of concerts conducted by another returning favorite, Carlo Rizzi. 

I'm also very excited to play for the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis this fall.  I don't know how it's possible for the competitors to keep getting more and more talented, but they do!  This year, there are 2 violinists that are part of our Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra family - Eric Silberger, son of Marc Silberger (past member of the ISO 1st violin section), and Robin Scott, son of Beverly and Sylvia Scott (Beverly is assistant principal viola and Sylvia is pianist).  We're all so proud of them!!  Best of luck to you both!!  The IVCI takes place September 10-26.

Then there is the Printing Partners Pops Series - Wayne Brady, Bugs Bunny, music of Paul McCartney - just to name a few in the awesome lineup for the Pops this season!  I know that's way more than 3 recommendations, but it's impossible to keep the list small!  It's going to be a terrific season! See you at the Hilbert Circle Theatre!

The Finish Line

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo


Ben LuttrellIt's a bittersweet goodbye. Ben Luttrell has worked as the Symphony's intern this summer for the fundraising event, Circle the City for the Symphony. Thanks for all the hard work Ben!

As I stood looking at the Circle the City for the Symphony finish line when I took a picture, the first thing that came to my mind was “I’m looking at the Finish Line-sponsored Finish Line.” The next thought was “This is really surreal.”

From what I’ve gathered from other interns and friends from BSU, many internship positions end with some sort of culminating event, such as a presentation or a project deadline. My internship ended, quite literally, with a Finish Line (both as a title sponsor and as a location).  I only grabbed a quick picture of it before being whisked off to pass out water and bananas, but it will be a picture I cherish for a long time.

The day went smoothly, apart from spilling a considerable amount of coffee on my white shirt and khaki pants within the first 30 minutes. Eric Halverson from WISH-TV Channel 8 (our media sponsor) was a great emcee (and posted some really cool videos online from the run), and special thanks to the Blue River Band for rocking the Circle after the races ended.

Circle the City

In the end, 1,400 people ran, walked, and/or strolled for the Symphony. If you add in the volunteers, committee members, musicians, staff, Colts cheerleaders, Mayor Ballard and everyone else who played a role in making this event happen, we come close to a Hilbert Circle Theatre sellout.

A few thank you’s are definitely in order:

-Thank you to The Finish Line for your title sponsorship of the event, along with our other sponsors Bingham-McHale LLP, WISH-TV and NUVO. It should go without saying that your support is a cornerstone to this event’s success.

-Thank you to Blue Bell Ice Cream and Dad’s Root Beer for providing us with the biggest hit of the day – the delicious root beer floats. I didn’t have one for fear of it ending up on my shirt like everything else seemed to that day, but everyone who had one testified to their greatness.

-A HUGE thank you to our volunteers. You all were the glue that held the event together and a large chunk of the day’s smooth operation is owed to your hard work.

-Thank you to those of you who control the weather, because it was absolutely perfect on Saturday.

-Thank you to Nia’s Market and Deli next door to Symphony Center – not for Saturday, per se, but for powering me through my internship. Were it not for Nia’s, Dunkin Donuts and Jimmy John’s, I probably wouldn’t have made it all the way to the end (those who worked with me over the summer can attest to my crushing addiction to caffeine).

-I would thank all the runners, walkers and strollers individually if I could, but that would take up way too much time. So consider this a blanket thanks and congratulations for running the race! Special thanks to our teams, and to Flashpoint HR, Ice Miller and Sallie Mae for winning their Corporate 5K divisions; and to Telamon for winning the Biggest Team Competition!

-Finally, a personal thank you to the ISO staff and musicians. I’ve been so fortunate to get to know and work with some great people that it makes going back to school harder than it should be. I started this internship with a PR skill set in development and a passion for the arts, and I’m coming out of it with so much more than I could have imagined. It will be hard leaving, and you can be sure that I’ll be back in some form.

Geoff Lapin and Sherry Hong

As a final aside, I took my mom to see Time for Three, the ISO's ensemble-in-residence, perform at Symphony on the Prairie that evening. 

If there is any way to describe to people why I want to use what I am learning to advance music, it would be to sit them down at a Tf3 concert, and then tell them “I want the entire world to hear this.”
 

Remember the Time - Michael Jackson

Monday, August 9, 2010 by Candi Berry
Candi BerryAs I've reported in previous blogs, I'm gradually familiarizing myself with Classical music and I'm grateful to report it has acquired a permanent residence in my musical landscape. Classical compositions now make up a respectable share of my IPod library and at least half of my work week is comprised of listening to Instant Encore playing through my work computer. It's a great resource which allows listeners to enjoy full pieces, not just thirty second samples. It also features numerous selections form our own Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra on its website.

Having noted this, I have to point out that a larger percentage of my musical library is dedicated to 80's music. It's a special treat for me that our upcoming Symphony on the Prairie concert will feature the music of Michael Jackson. I've been a fan of his since Thriller debuted while in sixth grade. I've included a picture of myself as a child with my Michael Jackson doll, a Christmas present from my family. I laugh now when I see this picture and my pairing of a ruffled dress shirt with those red parachute pants!


Candi with her Michael Jackson doll

I was deeply saddened when Michael Jackson passed away last year. I was attending the Led Zeppelin show at White River State Park featuring our orchestra when the news broke. At the end of the evening, "Stairway to Heaven" was played and a special dedication was made to Michael Jackson's memory. It was a gift for me to be surrounded by family and friends listening to beautiful music as I reminisced about what his music meant to me over the years. My favorite MJ song is "Man in the Mirror," I still break out in goose bumps when it starts playing. I also love the music videos empasizing his incredible dancing abilities. I never learned how to properly execute a moonwalk, I'm sure the grass at Conner Prairie will hinder me from attempting it one more time. I will, however, certainly be dancing in my seat the entire show.

We're in the home stretch!

Monday, August 2, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Ben LuttrellISO intern Ben Luttrell provides an update on the Circle the City for the Symphony walk/run.

Things are beginning to fall in place.

 

That’s not to say it hasn’t been stressful. I’d liken it to one of those big domino exhibitions: it’s fun and amazing to watch and you can’t help but admire the hard work that goes into it, but it gets more stressful as each element is revealed and open to the public.

 

**Something I think needs to be overstated before we go any further: this blog is only one example of the resources and options given to me and to the Circle the City planners and brain trust by the Orchestra. I can not thank everyone here enough for all that I’ve been able to do, say and experience as part of my internship.**

 

The process of setting up and organizing an event is a lot of work, but it can be done with a relative limited amount of people. Between the committee and full-time/part-time/intern staff at the ISO, there are around 15-20 people actively involved in the pre-game phase of the event.

 

The day of the event itself? That’s a whole new ball game.

 

They say it takes a village to raise a child. If that is true, then it takes a small army to put on a road race. People are needed to pass out water, take names and register people at the door, distribute R&R food, take chips for timing, clean up and a group of people whose sole job is to stand around and answer questions.

 

Seeing the amount of help it is going to take, we’re putting out the APB for any and all who would be open to volunteering for Circle the City. Our target is to have 160 people on hand Friday and Saturday to help everything go smoothly and without more incident than necessary.

 

For signing up and helping, we will give you a volunteer t-shirt to proudly display, and we’ll also give you a free ticket to a Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concert. No cost is involved – we just want your help and attendance at the event.

 

Information and signup is online at IndianapolisSymphony.org. We would love to see as many of you who can’t run or would rather help out come and have a blast while helping us out with this amazing event.

Circle the City for the Symphony -- Saturday, Aug. 7 at 8 a.m.!

Final thoughts

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 by Sean Newhouse
As you’ve probably heard by now, my time as Associate Conductor of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is quickly drawing to a close – I’ll be conducting the last concerts of my tenure this weekend at Marsh Symphony on the Prairie, before I head to Boston to take up a new position. 

As I reflect on my two years here in Indy, I’m struck by how fortunate I’ve been to have had an incredible diversity of opportunities with the ISO, conducting on every concert series, from the classical subscription series to the Family series, from Symphony on the Prairie to the Discovery concerts for students.  By my count, it all adds up to 76 performances of 32 different programs during my time here!

Among these 76 collaborations with the Indianapolis Symphony, there are a number that I know I will look back on especially fondly in the years to come.  Some of these personal musical highlights:  my first concerts at the Prairie back in 2008, which included Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7; the performances of the Corigliano Piano Concerto and Rachmaninoff 3rd Piano Concerto as part of the American Pianists Association competition in 2009; and the recent performances of Strauss’ Don Juan as part of the classical season finale that I conducted just last month.  There were also highlights of other sorts – playing the national anthem for over 67,000 people at Lucas Oil Stadium before the Colts-Patriots game last season, and 2 shows with a Beatles cover band last summer at the Prairie, which drew the most excited, fun, and hippest crowd I’ve ever performed for.  As for lowlights – well, only one really comes to mind:  the Happy Hour concert that I was slated to conduct just before the start of my official tenure in 2008, which was canceled because of a power outage – bummer!
ISO in Lucas Oil Stadium
I want to thank you, the wonderful loyal audiences of the ISO, for the warm welcome you’ve given me from the beginning of my time here – I look forward to hopefully returning in future years to make music for you again.  To the staff of the ISO, thank you for your professionalism, creativity, and sense of humor through thick and thin.  And above all, a tremendous thank you to the musicians of the ISO – it has truly been a pleasure to collaborate with you over the past two years.  Thank you for your artistry, thank you for your flexibility, and thank you for your patience with me as I have learned and grown as a conductor.
Sean Newhouse and the ISO
It occurs to me that my career seems to be following an eastward progression – my first job after grad school was in Los Angeles, then I came to Indy, and next I’m headed to Boston.  If this trend continues, it may be a while before I work my way all around the world to get back in the vicinity of Indy :-)  In any case, I will always treasure the great memories from my time here, and the friendships I’ve made – and hopefully I’ll get the chance to come back and visit and make music again soon!

See you at the Prairie this weekend!

P.S. – During the coming years, if you’d like to stay in touch with what I’m up to, check out my website:  www.seannewhouse.com.

Indiana Beach Gives Away Free Ticket for Circle the City Runners/Walkers!

Friday, July 16, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Intern Ben Luttrull is feeling the momentum now, as we near the home stretch for the planning of the Circle the City for the Symphony event on Aug. 7. 

If my internship was with the Indianapolis 500, we would be at about lap 350 right now: over halfway through and time to start really focusing on pushing as hard as possible down the stretch.

Some exciting things are happening with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's Circle the City event presented by Finish Line on Aug. 7.  For example, our course through downtown Indianapolis is all set! We will begin and end the race(s) on Monument Circle, and the course will take you through some of the prettiest scenery and neighborhoods in Indy.  And don't forget, ISO musicians will be scattered along the way and serenading you!

But that's not all! Remember the big surprise I talked about last time? Well – here it is:

The first 1,000 registrants for Circle the City for the Symphony will receive a FREE Combo Pass to Indiana Beach Amusement Resort in Monticello, Indiana. Unlimited theme park and water park ride access for one whole day is now included alongside your free ticket to a Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concert. This is across the board –  if you want to walk or run in the Symphony's 10K, 5K, Stroll or Junior Jog, you will receive the free pass while supplies last!  

Time is running out though!  Click here to register and claim your free tickets!

Are you interested in participating in the Circle the City for the Symphony activities, but don’t feel like running or walking? We’re looking for volunteers to help us out in making sure the events all go as smooth as possible. We need volunteer help for water stations, court marshals, and general race and participant support. If you volunteer, we will give you a free volunteer-exclusive Circle the City t-shirt and a ticket to a Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concert. Click here to sign up for a volunteer post.

Speaking of Symphony on the Prairie:  I will be at Sci-Fi Spectacular this weekend giving out information and taking registrations for Circle the City. I am infinitely more of a Star Wars fan than Trekkie, but I’m still super-excited to see George Takei. If you’re coming out to Conner Prairie this weekend, look for me at the top of the hill with the mountains of Circle the City brochures!

Take Me Home, Country Roads

Friday, July 9, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo
Bob Schultz and FamilyI'd like to introduce Bob Schultz, senior account director at Borshoff Strategic Communications, a fan of the ISO and a good buddy of mine. Bob recently told me he how much he and his family loved John Denver's music, which the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is performing this weekend in concerts at Marsh Symphony on the Prairie. I made him prove it by telling his story.

Ahhh, a Rocky Mountain High once again! My wife Diane and I can still remember when we heard the tragic news of John Denver’s death on Oct. 12, 1997. For us, it was the day the music died.

JD was much more that that folksy singer/songwriter with a goofy smile and twangy voice singing “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” We were first introduced to the music of the man while working at CYO Camp in Brown County, Indiana back in the ‘80s.  His music inspired me to take up guitar; to learn how to play “Eagle and The Hawk”; to fall in love. Later, when Diane was working on the Ft. Belknap Indian Reservation in Hays, MT, John Denver filmed his annual Christmas show there. Not too much later, “Annie’s Song” was played and sung by my Colorado and now-deceased brother Rick on Diane’s and my wedding day.

From then on, each time JD made an Indy visit, we’d gather our camp friends, head to Market Square Arena or Deer Creek and sing along to every song. Then, as our three kids were born – each was “given” their own JD tune that became their lullaby. Although his death has created a significant void, JD’s music survives. (In fact, our missionary friend Patrick says that “Country Roads” is played more in European and Asian countries than any other American song.)

So – we’ll be there, with our kids and friend this weekend – on the prairie – thanks to the incredibly talented Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and the look-alike, sound-alike Jim Curry. We’ll be singing along, remembering days gone by and introducing true American classics to the next generation. And I’m so pleased to know that JD’s music is still alive and well at that same CYO Camp where our kids now go.

Take me home, country roads!  

Ben's Internship Adventure

Tuesday, July 6, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Ben LuttrellISO Development intern Ben Luttrell gives us another glimpse into planning for the ISO's Circle the City for the Symphony event Aug. 7.

Between Conner Prairie trips, Circle the City for the Symphony duties, internship adventures and the dreaded “professional development," I’d say I’m having quite the summer so far at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. The honeymoon of “Wow, I have my own phone line!” has faded into the “I’m expected to do real work” feeling, but I’m quite excited to report that my internship has been everything but the coffee-fetching, errand-running busywork life that some had expected me to lead.

One part of my job that bucks the “intern does the busywork” stereotype is participating in Circle the City for the Symphony committee meetings. I love planning and coming together to talk strategy, and this road race is certainly the biggest event I’ve ever been on a steering committee for.  The full committee has met a few times now, and it’s been quite an adventure each time. Updates, brainstorming, planning, logistics, marketing, sponsorships all make regular stops on our agendas, as well as everything down to the minutest of details to be planned.

We’re working hard to not only put together the best event possible, but also get as many people as can to learn about Circle the City for the Symphony and register to participate in it. We set a goal to have 2010 people participate in Circle the City this year in downtown Indianapolis (with “2010 in 2010” being the appropriate slogan). We really want this event to be fun for the whole family, from the most competitive of runners to anyone looking for a safe walk around the city. To do that, we’ve expanded on two of our events aimed at those who aren’t looking to earn a time or a medal but rather a safe and fun way to support the Orchestra while enjoying a beautiful day.

Circle the City

First: the Symphony Stroll is back and better than ever. The Stroll is a one-mile walk through downtown Indianapolis aimed at all ages, abilities and activity levels. Unlike the competitive 5K/10K courses, the Stroll course is open to baby strollers and the family pet. The course will feature several of our wonderful Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra musicians playing for you as you walk by, and the end of the course will land right in the middle of our Post Race Party. All Stroll participants also get a free ticket to a Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concert!

Second: we’ve expanded on the Junior Jog from last year. The event is only open to children under the age of 10 and is a one-lap run around Monument Circle. Each of the runners will receive a bib, shirt and medal for taking part in the event, as well as their own Symphony on the Prairie ticket. Note that, unlike in years past, there is a fee for the Jog this year.

Right now, we’re bringing something together that is going to be big-time news for families regarding Circle the City for the Symphony. I can’t divulge anything until we have the answers to every possible question (something my supervisor is very keen on reminding me!), but I can say that it is a fantastic opportunity regarding the Symphony Stroll and Junior Jog. Keep posted to the ISO Blog, and I’ll be sure to let the cat out of the appropriate bag when the time is right.

All in the [Military] Family

Thursday, July 1, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo
Jessica Di SantoFor me, the best part about the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's patriotic concerts July 2-4  isn't Tchaikovsky's magnificent 1812 Overture, or the inspiring suite from Gettysburg or even the spectacular fireworks at the end.

I'm more affectionate for the Servicemen on Parade piece. The Indianapolis Symphony plays this medley of songs representing the branches of the military: Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Army. We ask that any patron who has served in the military to stand when his or her song is played. It's a poignant and proud moment for everyone at Symphony on the Prairie. 

If you're attending this weekend, pay particular attention not only to your fellow servicemen standing next to you, but check out who is standing in the Orchestra:

Michael Borschel, Assistant Principal Clarinet
Mike served for three years in the U.S. Army in the U.S.M.A Band at West Point, NY, after Basic Training at Ft. Ord, California, from 1969-1972. As a member of the West Point Band, Mike performed more than 100 concerts and 100 parades every year.

Jerry Montgomery, Horn
Jerry was enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1972-1975 and performed as part of the NORAD Band. He told me that two of his colleagues in the band also went on to distinguished horn careers: Dan Gress was principal horn of the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Dan Rauch is currently one of the top horn makers in the world.

Marvin ("Chappy") Perry, II, Principal Trumpet
Chappy served in the U.S. Army Band at Ft. Myer, Virginia from 1970-1973 and achieved the rank of E6 (equivalent to a Staff Sergeant). Chappy's band performed at many ceremonies including the White House, Arlington Cemetery, special music productions, a few short tours and concerts. He also performed at a few parades, including the second inaugural parade for President Richard Nixon.  Chappy has very interesting stories to tell about his military career, but this one in particular is priceless:

"Prior to my enlistment, there was a requirement for annual re-qualification at the rifle range, even for members of the Army's top musical unit. Interestingly, the band repeatedly outscored the Third Infantry, the show troops of the Military District of Washington."

Mark Ortwein, Bassoon
Mark served in the U.S. Air Force from 1990-1998 and achieved the rank of Technical Sergeant. He played for all the living presidents and even spoke to President Clinton about saxophones after a ceremony. Mark also played at the dedication ceremony for Mt. Rushmore and the opening of the Ronald Reagan Library.

Look for these gentlemen to play and stand during the salute! 

And if you see me on Friday night (top of the hill, right side) with my family, look for my Dad during the medley. As a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) commissioned officer (retired at the rank of commander), he will be standing during the Coast Guard's song (hey, it's the closest thing he's got). We'll also be honoring my brother Judd Crawford, who served seven years in the U.S. Coast Guard and who now serves in the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer, stationed at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma.

We look forward to honoring all of our military servicemen and women this weekend. Chappy says it best: "I have the utmost respect for other members and former members of our military. Some have suffered unbelievable hardship. They and their families have my sincere admiration."

Fireworks at Prairie

Happy Fourth and we'll see you at the Prairie!

It really is...Your Season, Your Way!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Mark Newman
Mark Newman is the ISO's Vice President of Marketing and Communications. I've turned my blog over to him so that he can remind you about the ISO's user-friendly Your Season~Your Way flexible subscription packaging. 

 The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is changing . . . evolving more accurately.  Much of the impetus for this evolution has been you—our patrons, fans and friends—and your changing lifestyle.  For some time, we’ve known that a traditional fixed subscription package didn’t fit everyone.  In response to that, we created Your Season~Your Way, a flexible alternative that allows you to create your own personalized concert package to fit your music preferences, schedule and wallet.

Your Season~Your Way suits all kinds of people with all sorts of lifestyles.  Here are a few examples:

Eclectics - If you’re the kind of music lover who enjoys both the ISO’s Classical and Pops series, then Your Season ~ Your Way is for you.  It lets you mix and match from both series as well as our new line-up of casual Classical programs, Symphonic Hits.  Imagine bundling Joshua Bell, Andre Watts, Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, the music of Paul McCartney and Cirque de la Symphonie in one concert series!  It doesn’t get much more eclectic than that.

Snowbirds - Say you spend part of your winter down south and can no longer make all the concerts in your traditional fixed package.  You should consider Your Season~Your Way as an option.  It allows you to fit ISO concerts into your busy travel schedule.

Power Brokers – Are you used to power lunches and power meetings?  How about a power concert series?  Your Season~Your Way is your ticket to the most inspiring music the ISO has to offer.

Workaholics - Maybe your work schedule is such that you only have select Fridays or Saturdays available for play.  Your Season~Your Way allows you to pick the concert dates that fit best with your hectic calendar. 

Penny Pinchers - Perhaps you just don’t want to make as big a financial commitment as a traditional fixed package typically requires.  The beauty of Your Season~Your Way is that you can pick as few as five concerts or as many as you like.  Regardless of how many concerts you choose, the one constant is that you’ll always save with Your Season~Your Way

To get a full taste of what we have in store for next season, I invite you to visit our website. I also invite you to go to our website to sign up for Your Season~Your Way.  Or, you might consider calling one of our Customer Care Representatives at 317.639.4300.  They’ll help you construct the perfect package. 

One thing we know for sure at the ISO is that life is better with music, and we feel we do a pretty good job of creating it.  I hope you’ll consider joining us next season at the Hilbert Circle Theatre!  What would be your perfect concert package?  Feel free to comment!
 

Getting Competitive: Sign up for the team competition by July 23!

Friday, June 25, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Ben LuttrellBen Luttrell gives us his third installment of his thoughts about the ISO's Circle the City for the Symphony event. Perhaps I need to give him his own blogroll?

I was a team captain for Ball State University's Relay for Life this past April. The opportunity I had to work with the BSU chapter of PRSSA (the public relations group for students) was good, but the real pleasure for me came from the opportunity to tell people all about this wonderful event and the cause it supports. It wasn’t about me and it wasn’t about the activities or the food or the free entertainment; it was all about getting as many people as I could to come out and spend some time supporting a worthy endeavor.

Take all of that, and fast forward to this summer with the ISO. Walking in to the position, I had a vague sense of what the orchestra did to better the community beyond concerts and clinics. The sheer magnitude of it all amazes me at times. The Guitar Center donation of instruments to our Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, for example: it caught me completely off guard and made my day. The fact that I have the opportunity to learn from this kind of organization still amazes me to this day. I know this sounds a little sappy, but I mean it. Enriching the lives of people through music is extremely important to me; it’s a trait I inherited from family and reinforced through education and fraternity.

If you’ve never captained a team for a charity race before, or if you want an opportunity to rally together and support a very worthy cause, Circle the City for the Symphony is providing a great opportunity to do just that. We’re pleased to roll out the brand new Biggest Team Competition this year. People from organizations across the board, from the most competitive of runners aiming to take top prize in the 10K, to someone just looking for a stroll through downtown and a morning of music and family fun, will be able to join forces as a team. Team members will receive a $2 discount on registration for linking together.

The most exciting part about this is the prize. Samaritan’s Feet, who will be at the race collecting shoes for needy children, is offering to partner with the largest team and offer a shoe distribution for needy children at the charity or community organization of the team’s choice. If you or your team doesn’t have a specific location in mind, Samaritan’s Feet will provide several choices for the team to pick from.

The more people we have coming out and supporting us, the merrier it will be for all parties involved. Circle the City for the Symphony is a great opportunity for your organization to rally together for a great cause, and have a safe and fun family adventure, too.

Online registration is live! Team captains should click here to register the team, and then the other members can click here to register after that. The deadline for team registration is July 23, so hurry up and start recruiting!
 

An Intern Throwdown!

Thursday, June 17, 2010 by Jessica Di Santo

Ben Luttrull is an intern with the ISO this summer and is working on the Symphony's Circle the City for the Symphony event in August. I've turned my blog over to him for his second installment!

If being competitive is defined as hating to lose, then I consider myself a fairly competitive person. I’ve been known to attach allegiance to teams for a month only to disavow any relationship upon the missing of playoffs. I still follow my high school marching band and cringe upon seeing any ranking other than #1. This past Ball State football season was a tug-of-war between Alma Mater loyalty and hatred of losing (still no clear winner yet). I’ve done quiz bowl, intramural sports, musical festivals and other competitions for the sole purpose of the joy of victory.

For the above reasons, I’m a little disappointed that I won’t be able to run with my fellow interns in Circle the City for the Symphony. The development interns have come up with a brilliant idea of entering the Corporate 5K Team Challenge as the official ISO Intern All-Star Team of the Decade (name pending approval). Since I’m working the event, I’ll have to only cheer and support the team on. Seeing as I’ll likely be running the equivalent of a 5K myself over the morning, it’s more of a mental setback than anything else. Still, the thought of the ISO Interns competing against their supervisors have inspired the CTC Powers That Be to consider a full-fledged bragging rights showdown between the staff.

The Corporate Team 5K Challenge is hardly limited to just the internal throwdowns. Any and every company or organization that has a group of people looking to run and compete together is more than able to register as many teams of six as they can. Rankings will be determined by the sum of the top five finishers for your team (number six serves as the tiebreaker). Every team members gets a $2 discount off of registration and a ticket to a Marsh Symphony on the Prairie concert. 

There are more than just bragging rights on the line, too. There are three traveling trophies that will go to the winners of each of the three divisions. One of these trophies currently rests in the office of our VP of development, Sean.
 

trophy

While internal bragging rights are good, the real prize we interns have our sights set on is that trophy. We’ll have to fight through a whole lot more than just our supervisors, though. Hopefully, everyone on our team is as competitive as me.

Team registration has to be done online, and all six members have to register at the same time – go here for more info and to register.
 

A Day at the "Strings and Jazzy Things" Camp

Tuesday, June 15, 2010 by Carol Baker

A Day at the "Strings and Jazzy Things" Camp
Regina Henderson, ISO Learning Community/MYO Intern
Valparaiso Univerity '11
 
 

 

 


On Tuesday June 8th, I had the wonderful opportunity to observe the annual summer music camp called “Strings and Jazzy Things.” After creating quite a journey for myself on my way to Broad Ripple High School, I wasn’t sure what I should be expecting and had no idea where I was going once I walked into the school. However, I finally found the registration area and set off on a mission to find Betty Perry who was in the midst of a rehearsal with a large group of young musicians. At first, I didn’t know what to expect coming out of such a variety of students, but hearing them rehearse was refreshing. I was excited to learn that it was only their 2nd day rehearsing and they sounded so great!

 

After the morning rehearsal, Betty gave me the run down of everything going on that day and introduced me to several of the volunteers and teachers donating their time to such a wonderful cause. She also introduced me to a few MYO members and told me the awesome news about MYO getting invited to participate in a Berklee music camp next summer! After that, we found our way to a master class of how to perform jazz music. Dr. Monika Hertzig, led a large group of kids in a workshop demonstrating what jazz music is. After running through the “blues” scale and going over some basic jazz rhythms, it was time to do some solos! There were a few kids brave enough to volunteer while others were convinced to do one. It was fun to watch how these young musicians let their creativity and energy flow into these wonderful solos.   After the jazz workshop, it was time to watch the pros do their thing and play some of their original pieces. The short concert was a nice break in the day and very enjoyable to listen to.

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Once the jazz workshop was over, it was time to grab some lunch and then break off into sectionals. I went around to the violin and viola sectionals to observe and take some pictures. This is when trumpeter, Mike Buselli came in to give the younger kids a master class on improvisation while the older ones were having sectionals. It was interesting to hear his story about why he plays the trumpet and how he conveys his emotions through his instrument. After that, there were several kids geared up and ready to volunteer their improvisatory skills and prove that they could express emotions through their playing. 

After a few exercises with triads and the “blues” scale, it was time to put their freshly learned skills to the test! Mr. Buselli was able to get a few volunteers to join him in front of everyone else and improve an emotion on their instruments while the class had to guess what emotion they were trying to convey. They did this with a couple more groups as well and all of the kids who volunteered were quite impressive! After the improv class, it was time for me to head out. I was so happy to know that summer music programs in Indianapolis like "Strings and Jazzy Things" still exist today and it is evident that these kids are learning so much from it!

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A picture of "Pictures"?

Monday, June 14, 2010 by Zack French
I have had a fascination with foreign languages since high school and have attempted to learn several – whether in school, at home, in full-immersion summer courses, or just by hanging out with foreign people in general.  To much avail, I speak no other language well, apart from a few phrases which amuse my 5-year-old son.  This fascination occurred when I read Ciardi’s translation of Dante’s Inferno and simultaneously (and coincidentally) learned a phrase in my Latin class, omni traductor traditor, or “every translator is a traitor.”  (Ironically I must translate this phrase, assuming that the reader does not know Latin.)  Simply put, the original is the true source, and any translation of it will result in contamination.  So to do this right, I need to learn Italian before I attempt to understand the Inferno as Dante intended?  Fantastico!

Some purists may think the same applies to music.
 
Take Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.  The original piano suite of 1874 has been orchestrated, rearranged and edited by numerous composers and musicians.  The most well-known is Maurice Ravel’s orchestration of 1922.  While this is the most commonly performed, there are over 100 different arrangements and orchestrations but only about a quarter are written for standard orchestra.  Among the rest includes some surprising examples like one for solo accordion, one for 45 pianos (!), and even one for tuba quintet.  Some of you may even recognize Mussorgsky’s piece from the 1971 live album of the same name by Emerson Lake and Palmer, which offered a certainly unique (and distortedly electronic) interpretation.
 
Maurice Ravel was a master of orchestration and used oddly-paired instruments and instrument sections to achieve new orchestral colors.  Just listening to a few strains of Bolero will give you enough of an example.  For example, midway through Bolero Ravel gives the main theme to the celeste (a small keyboard whose hammers strike small bells instead of strings) and solo horn, but writes the same melody three steps higher in one piccolo and five steps higher in the other, creating the impression you are listening to a pipe organ with its natural overtones.  Serge Koussevitsky (uncle of former ISO music director Fabien Sevitzky – note the abbreviated surname) made the perfect choice when he commissioned Ravel to orchestrate the work for his own use.  He knew Ravel would create a masterpiece from Mussorgsky’s already-masterful piano work which up to that point was relatively unknown.
 
So the question of the day: which is more effective – the original piano version or the Ravel orchestration?  Even if the latter is more effective, does it betray Mussorgsky’s objective?   Personally, I find the “Promenades” (the music you hear as the viewer “moves” from one painting to the next within the gallery) are more effective on piano, though the vignettes based on the pictures are more beautifully illustrated with the use of full orchestra.   Hear what Ravel does to a movement like Bydło (“cattle” in Polish).  It describes a large heavy cart drawn slowly by oxen.  In the piano version, it begins loudly, as if the cart was standing before you (or perhaps is taken from the viewpoint of the cart driver), and remains that volume throughout the entire movement.  Ravel’s orchestration, however, begins quietly, gradually increases in volume as the cart conceivably moves closer to you and then fades away into the distance.  Again, a simple idea yet completely effective; though based on dynamic markings in Mussorgsky’s piano score, it was not the original intention of the composer.  Improved or contaminated?  Or perhaps just different?  Normally orchestral works were reduced to piano score to expand their popularity (a music fan is more likely to have a piano, not a 90-piece orchestra, sitting in his or her living room), but in this case it is the opposite – the orchestral version put Pictures on the map.
 
Because MP3s imbedding is not possible in this blogware, please forgive my use of YouTube clips. The first is of Sviatoslav Richter performing the original piano version of the concluding movements of Pictures at an Exhibition, entitled Baba Yaga, or the Hut on Fowl’s Legs followed by The Great Gate of Kiev; the second clip is of Herbert von Karajan leading the Berlin Philharmonic in the same movements using Ravel’s orchestration.  
 

What do you think?   Please post your thoughts in the comment section below.  What works in the piano version that does not in the orchestral version?  Vice-versa?  Does Ravel “spice up” the original version with orchestral colors or does he ruin the composer’s intent?
 
Watch/listen/comment here, or decide for yourself if you attend the opening Symphony on the Prairie concert this weekend.  The ISO will be performing Ravel’s orchestration of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition on Saturday, June 19 at 8pm.  I would personally love to hear comments online or in person! 
 
Ciao ~

THANK YOU, Guitar Center!!

Tuesday, June 8, 2010 by Carol Baker

So I got one of those calls that comes in every once in a while about someone wanting to make a sizable donation to an ISO education program, and you think, will this really come through?  Maybe, maybe not.  I want to play it cool and steady, but there's a part of me that gets really excited even though they may not pan out.  =)

About 20 years ago I worked as a telemarketer for a regional theatre company selling subscriptions. It was difficult work, but I believed in the product - live theatre.  My boss would tell me that a certain percentage of people who commit over the phone and tell you they'll send in a check, don't.  Instead, I was encouraged to collect a credit card number on the spot to avoid the possibility of amnesia or minds changing.

A Maestro Open committee member had called me to say he made a contact with a guy at Guitar Center who said he may have some instruments to donate to the ISO.  I called up Randy Jaunzemis, VP of Logistics with Guitar Center, that same day to follow up on the lead and in fact, Randy told me that he had some instruments, but didn't know what kind or how many instruments he would have. He then said he would call me when they came in from Maryland.

Some time passed and I got that call, so I drove to the big Guitar Center distribution center in Brownsburg and walked in to a conference room filled with string instruments.  Wow!  Some needed repairs, but many were ready to be placed in the hands of a child.  At that time Randy couldn't commit to which instruments would be coming our way because he had some schools coming by for a look later that week.  He did allow me to take one full sized violin with me that day to hand over to one of our Metropolitan Youth Orchestra students still using an instrument too small for the growing boy.  I was ecstatic!  If we ended up with just the one, that OK, but maybe he might have 5 instruments out the many he had in that room for us?  We had to wait and find out.

That next week, Randy and his colleagues dropped off the instruments at Symphony Centre.  It was a TRUCK LOAD!! We had a concert about a week later and I asked some of the parents to help me catalog the generous gift - 26 instruments in all (roughly $11,000 worth!)

“When one of my contacts put me in touch with the orchestra, I was surprised by the excitement and need for the instruments,” said Jaunzemis. “Putting instruments in the hands of aspiring musicians fits perfectly with our company anthem, ‘we help people make music.’”

Thank you to Guitar Center, Inc. and Randy Jaunzemis for their generous donation to the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra program of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.  This youth and family development program uses string instruction to reach inner city youth and many students have no means to acquire an instrument.  Their gifts will be well used!


THE METROPOLITAN YOUTH ORCHESTRA

Founded in 1995 by Betty Perry and managed by the ISO since 2008, the MYO is the only youth orchestra in the city designed to serve socioeconomically challenged students in an urban setting and does not require an audition to participate. The program provides a safe, structured and positive learning environment for at-risk and underserved youth and their families; builds students’ musical skills through free and reduced-tuition music instruction; teaches them life skills and exposes them to nurturing adult role models; and encourages them to graduate high school. More than 150 socially, economically and racially diverse students in grades K-12 from area schools participate in the 35-week program.

The MYO program is also supported by the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust; National Endowment for the Arts; a Community Crime Prevention Grant; American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009; Christel DeHaan Family Foundation; The Indianapolis Foundation, a CICF affiliate; Back Home Again Foundation; Indianapolis Chapter of the Links, Inc.; The Glick Fund, a fund of Central Indiana Community Foundation; Shaw-Burckhardt-Brenner Foundation; Sheila Fortune Foundation; The Rotary Foundation of Indianapolis; and Stewart & Irwin P.C.

Reflections on this week

Thursday, June 3, 2010 by Sean Newhouse
I’m thrilled to this week have the privilege of making my debut on the ISO’s classical subscription series, as I approach the end of my tenure here in Indy.  Most of the concerts I’ve conducted over my two seasons here have been on one rehearsal, and the musicians of the ISO are such pros that they can put together a good show on that kind of short schedule.  But without being too presumptuous, what I think the ISO players and I both live for is the chance to really delve into the details of the music, and refine the performance to the highest level possible – which is what we get the chance to do in a week like this one, where we have a full set of five rehearsals - and thus why I'm particular excited about this weekend's concerts!

This week’s program is both fulfilling and challenging in its variety, with a more recent composition by a living composer, Ke-Chia Chen, a host of different works for solo violin and orchestra, and Strauss’ Don Juan.  It occurs to me that while these works span over 150 years of musical history, they do have a common thread – all these pieces present different perspectives on romanticism.  Take Ke-Chia Chen’s piece, Broken Crystal, for example, written just a few years ago – it deals quite literally with a romantic subject, in that the crystal of the title is a metaphor for the human heart.  You can hear these intimate feelings evoked in the passionate, sweeping melodies, as well as in the raw heartache expressed in the final section.

One other subject that this kind of varied program has focused me on is the conductor’s role as the unifier of diverse creative forces, one of the great rewards and challenges of the art.  For example, with a very new piece by a very young composer, like we have in Broken Crystal, my job is to try to internalize the musical language and musical logic of the piece *without* the benefit of a large canon of other works by the same composer to give me context, or even long familiarity with the work itself – and then to communicate that to the orchestral players, who are also new to this music, in such a way that together we can make the composer’s vision real for the audience.  With works for soloist and orchestra, like we have with our two fantastic violinists this week, Bella Hristova and Augustin Hadelich, my ideal is to understand their interpretation so intimately that I’m on a virtually telepathic wavelength with them during the performance, constantly adjusting in the moment to their musical impulses and framing them in the best possible light.  And with a warhorse of the repertoire like Strauss’ Don Juan, I’m attempting to serve the composer’s vision of the piece while simultaneously giving it my personal stamp and honoring the fantastic musicianship and solo contributions of the ISO players.