Mike Wolanin | The Republic People gather for the annual Salute! concert at the Columbus Municipal Airport in Columbus, Ind., Friday, May 24, 2024.
Because of forecasted weather conditions during the scheduled time of the Salute! 2025 concert, the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic has made the difficult decision to move the concert indoors, according to a press release. The new location for the concert will be at Erne Auditorium at Columbus North High School on May 23 at 7 p.m.
The decision was not made lightly, according to the release, as the Philharmonic greatly values the tradition of performing outdoors for the community each year. However, after consulting with multiple weather forecasting sources, including meteorologists affiliated with the Columbus Municipal Airport, they determined the change to be necessary.
“I always look forward to our annual Salute program, which for me is one our most meaningful concerts so we can remember those who gave their lives for our freedoms. There is nothing like holding this event outdoors with thousands in attendance, but this unfortunately leaves us at the mercy of the weather and that means that we sometimes need to move indoors,” Columbus Indiana Philharmonic Music Director Isaac Selya wrote in the press release. “We look forward to the return to the Columbus AirPark for Salute 2026.”
At the time of the performance, temperatures are expected to be at or below 60°F with a rapid drop into the low-to-mid 50s. These conditions pose a risk of damage to musical instruments, especially string instruments, and would also impact the comfort and safety of both musicians and attendees, the release says.
The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic warmly invites the community to join them for their Salute! celebration at the new indoor location. While the venue has changed, the spirit of the program remains the same, according to the release. This cherished annual event honors those who have served in the United States Armed Forces with a program of patriotic and contemporary music.
Doors open for Salute! at 6 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. Mark Pillar will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Admission to Salute! is free and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“We thank the community for its understanding and support as we prioritize safety and the integrity of the performance,” the release says. “We look forward to sharing this meaningful evening of music and remembrance with you.”
