Philharmonic will celebrate iconic composers, mark century anniversary of World War I armistice

Old favorites such as organist Dan McKinley, the Wright Brothers and violinist Susie Park are returning.

Composer Leonard Bernstein and Armistice Day also earn a centennial salute.

They’re all a part of the for the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s 2018-19 season, with the theme “Stay Tuned” stretching from September to May, counting the free SALUTE! event.

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The ensemble already is promoting season tickets, a key for most orchestras’ financial health. For the current season, the Philharmonic boasts about 500 season ticket holders, said Katelyn Ice, director of marketing.

Here’s an overview of what’s on tap when Philharmonic Music Director David Bowden raises his baton in the fall.

Unless otherwise noted, all concerts are at Judson Erne Auditorium, 1400 25th St. in Columbus.

Sept. 15: Bernstein & Gershwin — Featuring pianist Drew Petersen and celebrating the legacy of American musical icon Leonard Bernstein for a party commemorating his 100th birthday. The orchestra honors his life and career with music from “West Side Story” and more.

Oct. 20: Duruflé Requiem & Enigma Variations — Featuring the Philharmonic Chorus and organist Dan McKinley, First Christian Church, 531 Fith St. in downtown Columbus. Experience Duruflé’s Requiem, a work of soothing beauty, Bowden said, and McKinley performing Elgar’s Enigma Variations.

Nov. 10: Honoring Our Veterans — Featuring Carmel’s Wright Brothers, vocalists who already have enjoyed popularity with local music fans in two performances on the 100th anniversary of World War I’s Armistice Day.

Dec. 8: Philharmonic Holidays — Scheduled at Columbus East High School’s Clarence E. Robbins Auditorium, 230 S. Marr St., the performance will include music from “The Nutcracker,” “Silver Bells,” “Jingle Bell Rock” and other favorites.

Feb. 2: Gorgeous Grieg & Brahms’ Second Symphony — Bowden sees the beginning of Grieg’s concerto as one of the most memorable moments in classical music. And some have labeled the second symphony of Brahms as “sunny.”

March 2: Irish Eyes Are Smiling — With tenor vocalist Ronan Tynan and beautiful ballads and toe-tapping jigs of the emerald isle accompanied with a lively performance by the Irish Dancers.

April 20: Tchaikovsky & Beethoven 7 — Australian-born violinist Susie Park, known to locals partly for a kinetic and dynamic stage presence in previous performances, joins the Philharmonic for Tchaikovsky’s spirited Violin Concerto. Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony also is a part of the program.

May 24: SALUTE! — The annual outdoor pops program honoring area military is slated once again for the lawn of the Bartholomew County Memorial For Veterans at Second and Brown streets downtown.

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The Philharmonic introduces new discount season subscription options designed for millennials, families and active duty military: Untuxed Phil, Phil’s Family Fun Pass and Tickets for Troops. Patrons interested in purchasing season tickets or tickets to three or more concerts, called “Pick-A-Pack,” can save money before March 31 before prices increase.

Single tickets will go on sale this summer. Groups of 10 or more may call the Philharmonic box office.

For single, package or season tickets: 812-376-2638 or thecip.org.

Columbus Regional Health and The Republic are the season sponsors.

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