INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) welcomes Music Director Jun Märkl back to the podium this April for two weeks of performances at Hilbert Circle Theatre, featuring two classical programs, a spotlight on the orchestra’s newest principal musicians, and immersive audience experiences.
Märkl’s return begins April 17–18 with French Images: Debussy, Ravel & Fauré, a program celebrating the color, elegance, and expressive nuance of French music. This concert will highlight four of the ISO’s newest principal musicians: Claire Thai, Principal Harp; Julianna Darby, Principal Clarinet; Bryson Karrer, Principal Second Violin; and Jungah Yoon, Principal Flute, showcasing their artistry in featured roles throughout the program.
Audiences will experience a vibrant selection of works, including Debussy’s Sacred and Profane Dances and selections from Images, Ravel’s virtuosic Tzigane, Saint-Saëns’ Tarantelle, and Fauré’s beloved Pavane.
Enhancing the evening on Friday, April 17, guests may also add Circle Theatre Tastings: A Taste of France, part of the ISO’s new pre-concert tasting series. This guided wine experience invites patrons to explore a curated selection of French varietals inspired by the evening’s program, French Images, adding another layer of flavor and atmosphere to the concert experience. With the purchase of a concert ticket, patrons may reserve the tasting for $30. Reservations are available while supplies last.
The week also includes Into the Music: Debussy on April 16 at 6:30 p.m., a free, pay-what-you-wish event designed to make classical music more accessible. Märkl will co-host the evening alongside Ryan Ahlwardt, offering an engaging onstage discussion and full orchestral performance of Debussy’s Images. In partnership with Newfields, artwork will be displayed on screen throughout the event, visually connecting audiences to the music.
Märkl continues April 24–25 with Jun Märkl Conducts Rachmaninoff and Dvořák, a program filled with sweeping melodies and vibrant energy. Pianist Drew Petersen joins the ISO for Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, one of the most beloved works in the piano repertoire. The program also features selections from Bizet’s L’Arlésienne Suite No. 2 and concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 and Slavonic Dance, Op. 46, No. 8.
Together, these performances showcase Märkl’s artistry and the ISO’s commitment to both musical excellence and engaging audience experiences.
Tickets for all performances are available now at indianapolissymphony.org or by calling the ISO Box Office at 317-639-4300.
