Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s fall highlights include millennial pop queen favorites, Disney legend, Harry Potter & more

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) kicks off another exciting fall season of concerts at Hilbert Circle Theatre that celebrate the power of live music. The 2026-27 season marks Maestro Jun Märkl’s second full year as music director, with performances that bring audiences everything from epic symphonies to film and pop culture favorites.

Tickets for all shows are on sale now. For tickets and more information on ISO concerts, visit IndianapolisSymphony.org or call (317) 639-4300.

Rite of Spring & Beethoven Concerto No. 4
Friday, Sept. 25 & Saturday, Sept. 26

Feel the full range – and full force – of the orchestra. Music Director Jun Märkl leads a journey from Mussorgsky’s gleeful darkness to Beethoven’s grace and Stravinsky’s overwhelming power. Night on Bald Mountain turns supernatural horror into theatrical thrills, while pianist Spencer Myer – chair of the Piano Department at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and winner of the 2006 American Pianists Awards – brings humanity and lyricism to Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto. Then The Rite of Spring unleashes pounding rhythms, ritual intensity, and an enormous orchestral sound in music you may feel as powerfully as you hear.

Oops … I Sang It Again!
Friday, Oct. 9 & Saturday, Oct. 10

From Britney to Beyoncé, the pop queens are back! Hit me, baby, one more time with the smash hits of the millennial pop queens. Go Gaga for the epic riffs of Britney, Beyoncé, Christina, and more as three powerhouse vocalists join the orchestra to spice up your life. Sing along to hits such as “No Scrubs” by TLC, “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne, “Get the Party Started” by Pink, “Rehab” by Amy Winehouse, and more. Join ISO for this world premiere with Principal Guest Conductor of Pops Enrico Lopez-Yañez.

Beethoven Concerto No. 2 & Mahler Symphony No. 1
Thursday, Oct. 15, Friday, Oct. 16 & Saturday, Oct. 17

2025 American Piano Awards winner Michael Davidman shines in Beethoven’s elegant Second Piano Concerto, as Music Director Jun Märkl guides a journey from Beethoven’s sparkling Prometheus Overture to the triumphant heights of Mahler’s exhilarating First Symphony.

Into the Music – FREE Admission!
Thursday, Oct. 15

Join the ISO for Into the Music, a free series featuring a lively discussion followed by a performance – with full orchestra – of the highlighted classical work. Maestro Jun Märkl will co-host an on-stage discussion joined by Emmy Award-winner Ryan Ahlwardt. 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. Before the orchestra performs each piece, Maestro Märkl and Ryan Ahlwardt will chat onstage, providing background on each musical work and the composer, what the audience might pay special attention to as they listen and watch the orchestra, and countless insights designed to create a memorable experience with the ISO. Join Maestro Märkl as he explores the triumphant heights of Mahler’s exhilarating First Symphony.

An Evening with Lea Salonga – Disney Legend & Broadway sensation
Tuesday, Oct. 20

With her powerful voice and perfect pitch, Lea Salonga is best known for her Tony Award-winning portrayal of Kim in Miss Saigon and her roles in Les Misérables, Allegiance, and Once on This Island. Fans of all ages will recognize Salonga as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from Aladdin and Fa Mulan from Mulan and Mulan II. For her portrayal of the princesses, the Walt Disney Company bestowed her with the honor of “Disney Legend.” This is Salonga’s fifth appearance with the ISO. Salonga will perform pieces from many Broadway shows including Les Misérables, Wicked, Aladdin, Miss Saigon, and more.

Conrad Tao, Beethoven Concerto No. 1, Mozart Symphony No. 39
Friday, Oct. 23 & Saturday, Oct. 24

Visionary pianist-composer Conrad Tao performs Beethoven’s youthful First Piano Concerto and his own captivating new concert work The Hand, written as a modern companion piece to Beethoven’s First Piano Concerto. Historical performance specialist Richard Egarr leads Mozart’s grand Symphony No. 39, completing a vibrant musical experience.

Harry Potter and the Chamber­ of Secrets­™ in Concert
Friday, Oct. 30, Saturday, Oct. 31 & Sunday, Nov. 1

Audiences will be able to relive the magical adventure of Harry Potter’s second year at school like never before. This concert features Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in high-definition while the ISO performs John Williams’ otherworldly score. Experience the wonder of talking spiders, scolding letters, and giant snakes all over again!

Cinderella ft. the Indianapolis Ballet
Friday, Nov. 6, Saturday, Nov. 7 & Sunday, Nov. 8

Experience the magic of Cinderella, Indianapolis Ballet’s company premiere of the beloved fairytale ballet, choreographed and staged by Cincinnati Ballet Artistic Director Emerita, Victoria Morgan. The first of three collaborations with the ISO during the 2026-27 season, this enchanting production at Clowes Memorial Hall brings a timeless story to life with dazzling choreography, Prokofiev’s rich, dramatic score performed live by the ISO, and unforgettable characters. Andrew Grams leads the orchestra with a distinctive blend of intensity, enthusiasm, and technical precision. It’s a perfect outing for audiences of all ages.

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey
Friday, Nov. 13 & Saturday, Nov. 14

Rick Steves, America’s leading authority on European travel, teams up with the ISO for a spectacular musical journey through Europe. Playing musical tour guide, Steves utilizes his extensive knowledge of European history and culture to help set the context for each piece. Then, the orchestra performs a selection of stirring 19th-century anthems by Romantic-era composers, including Grieg, Smetana, Strauss, Berlioz, and Verdi. The music is accompanied by a montage of evocative video images from each country. Perfect for lovers of music, history, and travel.