On this episode of Mocktails & Masterpieces, ICO Music Director Matthew Kraemer sits down with acclaimed violinist and composer Tim Fain for a wide-ranging conversation about musical curiosity and creative evolution. Tim shares his journey from piano to violin, his early experiences singing in a children’s choir, and how those influences shaped his expanding voice as a composer and violin soloist. The episode also features a special performance of Tim’s own violin concerto, composed and performed by the artist himself. Tune in for an intimate look at a versatile musical life—and hear more about Tim’s upcoming appearance with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra for the world premiere of Michael Shapiro’s Violin Concerto, By the Shore of the Sea on January 31 at the Schrott Center for the Arts. Tickets are available at https://www.icomusic.org/concerts/shore-of-the-sea-featuring-tim-fain-violin/

In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed Venezuelan soprano María Brea, a rising force on today’s operatic stage whose performances have been praised for their “virtuosity,” “luxurious polish,” and magnetic theatrical instinct. From her celebrated roles in Zorro, The Magic Flute, and Carmen to her vibrant advocacy for Latin American artistry, María shares the story of her musical journey from Caracas to major stages across North America.

We explore how her heritage shapes her artistry, the roles and collaborations that have influenced her, and her work uplifting Latina voices in opera. Warm, insightful, and full of passion for the craft, María offers an inspiring look at life behind the scenes of a modern opera career.

Join us for a rich and intimate conversation with one of today’s most compelling young sopranos.

Hear María with the ICO on December 13 and 14th at Indiana Landmarks for A Classical Christmas.

Tickets at www.icomusic.org

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. Buy Tickets for "Miami in Motion" with Sharon Isbin on November 22 at 7:30 at the Schrott Center

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. Buy Tickets for "Miami in Motion" on November 22 at 7:30 at the Schrott Center

The Music Library Explore one of the hidden parts of the concert machine—the music library—where scores are prepared, marked, and delivered to musicians long before you hear the music on stage.

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) Step into the conductor’s world with Matthew Kraemer and learn how concert programs are crafted—what pieces are chosen, why certain works are paired together, and how brand-new compositions make their way to the stage.