In this engaging episode, Maestro Matthew Kraemer sits down with world-renowned guitarist Sharon Isbin to discuss her artistry, passion for new music, and the evolution of her performances. Together, they reflect on how her recent concerto—first premiered in 2024—has grown and transformed through subsequent performances, capturing new dimensions of sound and expression.

Isbin also shares an inside look at the recording sessions at St. Luke’s, offering a glimpse into the precision and creativity that define her approach to the studio. The conversation delves into her deep commitment to commissioning and performing new works, while also honoring the classical guitar’s rich standard repertoire—a balance she has masterfully maintained throughout her celebrated career.

Listeners will enjoy an inspiring dialogue about artistry, innovation, and the ever-evolving voice of the guitar in today’s classical music world.

In this episode, Maestro Matthew Kraemer hosts a captivating conversation with acclaimed composer Karen LeFrak and world-renowned guitarist Sharon Isbin. Together, they explore the creative journey behind LeFrak’s new concerto, from its origins and inspirations to the intricate details of the compositional process.

Listeners gain insight into what it’s like to compose for a specific soloist—especially one as distinctive and expressive as Isbin—and how collaboration shapes the final work. LeFrak and Isbin share personal reflections on their artistic partnership, as well as the evolution of the concerto since its premiere.

Blending musical insight, creative storytelling, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this discussion offers an intimate look at how great collaborations bring new music to life.

The Music Library 

Executive Director, Dana Stone, and Operations Coordinator, Tucker McGrew, provide an inside look at the process with comments and stories from past concerts.

Explore the music of Franz Waxman and Miklós Rózsa in this new podcast episode of Mocktails & Masterpieces. Music Director, Matthew Kraemer, discusses their iconic film and concert works and reveals the strong bond between the concert hall and the silver screen. Fun fact: Miklós Rózsa composed the Ben-Hur 1958 score. This episode was originally released in video format only on August 6, 2020.

Experience Carl Davis' score for Ben-Hur 1925 on October 18th when ICO performs it live on stage to the film. Learn more and get tickets here: https://www.icomusic.org/concerts/ben-hur-1925/

Join Executive Director, Dana Stone, and Operations Coordinator, Tucker McGrew, and discover the intricate choreography behind the scenes, from stage changes to rehearsal schedules, and how every logistical detail ensures the show goes on.

From Score to Stage is a three-part podcast and video series that takes you inside the fascinating journey of turning a musical idea into a live performance with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Each episode pulls back the curtain on a different chapter of the process—blending artistry, strategy, and behind-the-scenes magic.

Episode 1 – Programming & Commissions (August)

Learn about ICO's upcoming parks' concerts with partner guests Rachel Osterhouse and Patricia Altamirano.

This year's performances 

Riverside Park, Taggart Amphitheatre - August 28, 2025 at 7:30PM

Holliday Park, at the Ruins - August 29, 2025 at 7PM

A look back at ICO Parks Partnerships that continue still today.

Don't miss this year's parks' concerts at Riverside and Holliday Park!

Riverside Park, Taggart Amphitheatre - August 28 at 7PM

Holliday Park, at the Ruins - August 29 at 6:30PM

Join us for a special episode as the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra welcomes Michael Shapiro, our 2025–2026 Composer-in-Residence. Music Director Matthew Kraemer sits down with Michael to discuss his creative process, inspirations, and what’s ahead this season.

You’ll hear exclusive clips from Violinist, Tim Fain, with Shapiro conducting, and Tim Fain performing Shaprio's Peace Variations. Join the ICO in January for two premiere performances of Michael Shapiro: the high-energy Zoomies and the lyrical By the Shore of the Season, a violin concerto written for and performed by acclaimed violinist Tim Fain.  

Discover the music, the stories, and the artistry behind the season in this behind-the-scenes conversation.

Get to know Suliman Tekalli, ICO's next Concertmaster! Enjoy a interview with Executive Director, Dana Stone, as they discuss the role of concertmaster, what Suli is looking forward to next season, and a performance by Suliman and Jamila Tekalli, his sister, pianist!