By Jessica Fox
Have you ever wanted to find a way to get your kids or grandkids interested in classical music? The Indiana Wind Symphony’s free outdoor concert June 20 at the Carmel City Hall Gazebo might be the perfect chance.
The Symphony will partner with guest soloist Ken Knowles to performed selections from Broadway’s popular “Wicked” musical, along with marches from John Philip Sousa and Karl King and a few new pieces as well.
“It’s a wonderful summer evening concert. Bring a lawn chair and a picnic. You can even bring the dog,” said Charles Conrad, the Indiana Wind Symphony’s music director.
Tenor soloist Ken Knowles will sing the classic “Danny Boy” and “Nessun Dorma” from the opera Turandot.
“Anytime I get to sing ‘Nessun Dorma’ it’s a real treat, and ‘Danny Boy’ is so emotional … It’s a real crowd pleaser,” Knowles said.
Knowles occasionally has been invited to perform solos with the symphony, but this is still a unique occasion that listeners won’t want to miss.
“I love singing with the symphony. Charlie is a great conductor, and I’m honored to be on the program,” Knowles said.
Recently retired Carmel High School choral director Ann Conrad had hoped to perform at the concert as well, but she had to back out because of medical reasons.
Knowles formerly taught at Carmel High School, too. But he taught English.
Conrad did say that she believes there will be a little something for everyone at the event.
“It’s an interesting place for kids even if they are not into it … It’s a great place to hear a variety of music – some former and some new,” Conrad said.
The symphony is in its 14th season of performing as Indiana’s concert band. The 80-piece band includes professional musicians, music educators and musicians working in a variety of other jobs.
Admission to this performance is free and listeners should feel free to bring their own food, blankets and chairs.
Indiana Wind Symphony ● Performance at the City Hall gazebo in Carmel ● 7 p.m. June 20 ● Free ● For more information visit www.indianawindsymphony.org
