ISO showcases PASIC anniversary and special classical programs in 2025–26
Building on the excitement of its 2025–26 season launch, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) will present a series of distinctive performances this fall and spring that showcase the orchestra’s versatility and its role as a cultural leader in central Indiana. From a landmark celebration of percussion, to an interactive series that takes audiences inside the heart of classical masterpieces, to intimate collaborations with local universities, these concerts underscore the ISO’s commitment to presenting music in fresh, imaginative, and accessible ways.
Celebrating 50 Years of PASIC and Music For All
On November 13, 2025, the ISO celebrates the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) and Music For All in marking their 50th anniversaries with a one-night-only concert at Hilbert Circle Theatre. Assistant Conductor Hannah Schendel leads the ISO in a program featuring world-renowned percussionists Michael Burritt and Ivan Trevino.
Program highlights:
- Shostakovich: Festive Overture
- Michael Burritt: Ontario (world premiere) | Michael Burritt, marimba
- Ivan Trevino: Catching Shadows | Michael Burritt & Ivan Trevino, marimbas
- Mussorgsky (arr. Ravel): Pictures at an Exhibition
Concert begins at 6 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased here.
Into the Music with Jun Märkl
Returning for its second season, Into the Music offers audiences an engaging blend of conversation and performance. Music Director Jun Märkl is joined on stage by Ryan Ahlwardt (co-host of Indy Now on FOX59) to provide an in-depth look at what makes this music great.
2025–26 Into the Music programs:
- October 9, 2025 – Strauss: Death and Transfiguration
- February 19, 2026 – Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”
- April 16, 2026 – Debussy: Images
- June 18, 2026 – Schumann: Symphony No. 1 “Spring”
Doors open at 6 p.m., concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, with no intermission. Tickets can be reserved here.
Chamber Music in Partnership with Butler University and the University of Indianapolis
The ISO also continues its Chamber Music Series, presented in collaboration with Butler University’s Jordan College of the Arts and the University of Indianapolis. Offered free of charge, the series showcases ISO musicians—many of whom also serve as university faculty—in intimate chamber music settings.
Concert schedule:
- September 15 & 17, 2025 – Beethoven & Mendelssohn String Quartets
- November 10 & 12, 2025 – Woodwinds and Piano
- January 26 & 28, 2026 – Mozart & Dvořák
- March 23 & April 8, 2026 – Brass Quintet
Concerts take place at Eidson-Duckwall Recital Hall (Butler University) and the DeHaan Fine Arts Center (University of Indianapolis).
Tickets do not need to be reserved in advance.
Sphinx Series Highlights Innovative Contemporary Musicians
On Nov. 5, ISO Assistant Conductor Hannah Schendel leads a miraculous evening of music at the historic Madam Walker Theatre. Coleridge-Taylor’s spirited Novelletten and Haydn’s “Miracle” Symphony meet the bold voices of today in partnership with the Sphinx Organization, which champions Black and Latino musicians. Valerie Coleman’s Tracing Visions confronts grief and rises to hope, while Kebra-Seyoun Charles’s performs his own composition Nightlife which pulses with the energy of city streets and clubs. Follow the Sphinx Series for additional concerts to be announced later this fall.
Together, these programs reflect the ISO’s mission to create powerful musical experiences, invite audiences into discovery, and deepen connections across the community.