INDIANAPOLIS—Fresh from announcing Maestro Jun Märkl as the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s music director in 2024, the ISO is rolling out a new series of FREE concerts beginning in January 2025, inviting the community to dive “Into the Music.”
Each “Into the Music” concert will feature a lively discussion followed by a performance—with a full orchestra—of the highlighted classical work. Ryan Ahlwardt, co-host of Indy Now on FOX59, will join Maestro Märkl for the on-stage discussion.
The concerts will take place at Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis at 6:30 p.m. on the following dates:
- January 23, 2025: Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra
- April 24, 2025: Strauss: Ein Heldenleben
- June 12, 2025: Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique
Reserve free tickets here. “Into the Music” performances are offered free of charge; patrons are encouraged to pay what they wish to support the ISO.
Whether you’re a classical beginner or a longtime enthusiast, “Into the Music” offers an intimate look at each classical work in a relaxed, accessible setting. Joined by the orchestra, Maestro Märkl and Ryan Ahlwardt will chat onstage, providing background on each musical work and the composer. The orchestra will perform excerpts demonstrating the discussion topics that explore the elements that make great music. Following the discussion, Maestro Märkl will conduct the orchestra performing the highlighted work. The length of each performance will vary from 60 to 75 minutes.
“‘Into the Music’ is a wonderful opportunity to connect with classical music and learn more about some of the greatest pieces written for orchestra,” said Maestro Märkl. “The ISO invites our community to join us for an informative discussion in a casual setting. Relax, enjoy, and return for the full performance on Friday or Saturday!”
Ryan Ahlwardt has been a featured guest on many network TV shows and two national PBS specials and has also served as a radio host in Indianapolis. An avid musician, Ahlwardt is an alumnus of the world-renowned vocal group Straight No Chaser, and his voice, arrangements, and original songs are featured on the group’s albums.
“I’m incredibly excited to be part of ‘Into the Music’ and honored to work with Maestro Märkl. The ISO is such an important part of Indianapolis culture. I’m eager to spread the word and help our community find ways to connect through classical music,” said Ahlwardt.
Know before you go:
“Into the Music” is free to the public, but patrons are encouraged to pay to support the ISO. Each concert will run between 60 and 75 minutes with no intermission. Ticket holders for “Into the Music” will be offered a 50% discount to attend the full IU Health Plans Classical Series concert featuring the highlighted music.
