ISO announces 2026–27 education and community engagement programs
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce its 2026–27 education and community engagement programs, offering opportunities for students, educators, aspiring young musicians, and community members to connect with orchestral music throughout the season.
From field trips to Hilbert Circle Theatre and in-school experiences to opportunities for students and community musicians to rehearse and perform alongside ISO musicians, the Orchestra’s education programs are designed to meet people at every stage of their musical journey.
Discovery Concerts
For students in grades 3–6
Discovery Concerts provide students with an opportunity to experience orchestral music in a live performance at Hilbert Circle Theatre. Each program is accompanied by a thematic curriculum guide designed to meet Indiana Academic Standards and includes cross-curricular activities incorporating music, language arts, math, visual arts, and more.
2026–27 Discovery Concert dates:
- Jan. 13 at 10:15 a.m.
- Feb. 2 at 10:15 and 11:30 a.m.
- Feb. 3 at 10:15 a.m.
- Feb. 23 at 10:15 and 11:30 a.m.
- March 30 at 10:15 and 11:30 a.m.
Classical Jam
For community musicians age 21 and older
Classical Jam invites adult community musicians to rehearse, mingle, and perform alongside Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra musicians. Participants will rehearse great orchestral works, enjoy dinner with ISO musicians, and perform a short concert that is free and open to the public.
2026–27 Classical Jam dates:
- Oct. 6: Registration deadline | Oct. 27: Event
- April 2: Registration deadline | May 4: Event
Side-by-Side
For student musicians
Side-by-Side gives talented young musicians the opportunity to experience the professional music environment and perform challenging repertoire alongside their professional counterparts. Selected students participate in four weeks of intensive coaching and sectionals with ISO musicians and rehearsals with ISO Assistant Conductor Hannah Schendel. Side-by-Side culminates in an evening performance alongside members of the Orchestra.
2026–27 Side-by-Side dates:
- Nov. 6: Audition deadline
- Feb. 23: First rehearsal
- March 17: Concert
Michael Ben & Illene Komisarow Maurer Young Musicians Competition
For accomplished young musicians
The Michael Ben & Illene Komisarow Maurer Young Musicians Competition encourages accomplished young musicians to set and achieve goals of technical and artistic excellence through the experience of performing in a competitive setting. All finalists receive scholarships, and the competition winner has the opportunity to perform their winning concerto with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
2026–27 competition dates:
- Jan. 8: Registration deadline
- Jan. 31: Finals Round
- March 17: Concert
History in Harmony
For students and educators
History in Harmony combines chamber music with compelling historical narratives to explore specific themes, time periods, and cultural moments. By examining the relationship between music and history, these performances offer classrooms a fresh and engaging way to enhance curriculum and explore how music reflects and shapes the world around us.
More ways to learn and connect
In addition to these featured programs, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra offers a variety of education and community engagement opportunities throughout the year for students, educators, and community members. Programs range from in-school experiences and field trips to opportunities for musicians to perform alongside ISO artists.
All program information, including registration and participation details, is available at indianapolissymphony.org/learn/. Registration can be completed online or by contacting the ISO Education Department at education@indianapolissymphony.org.
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra looks forward to welcoming students, educators, musicians, and community members throughout the 2026–27 season and sharing the transformative experience of live orchestral music with Hoosiers across Indiana.