Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

A new Music Director for the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra has been appointed: his name is David Danzmayr, For more information about him, his webpage is
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My parents have been subscribers of the IPO for a few years, and lucky for me, they occasionally take me to concerts when they have extra tickets.
Up until this year, they performed at the Performing Arts Center at Governors State University in University Park on Saturday nights, and Lincoln Way Central High School on Sunday afternoons. Now all concerts (Saturday and Sunday) are help at Lincoln Way North High School. From what I understand this is to be closer to more of their fan base. I’m not really thrilled about the move. While it is closer to me, it was much more impressive to see a concert in a University Performing Arts Center than a high school auditorium. It is a nice auditorium, but it’s much smaller and don’t sit in the back row if you are over 5’6.
As for the music, it is top notch. If you can’t afford tickets to the CSO or the travel required (or even if you can), attend the IPO. They are extremely talented musicians and Maestro Carmen DeLeone picks a very nice variety of music. Some I like more than others, but that is the joy of going to concerts — hearing variety.
The southland is very lucky to have the IPO in their own backyard. Check them out, you won’t regret it.

This organization and the events held at Lincoln Way North High School (at their Performing Arts Center) is just an absolute hidden gem, especially if you live in the Southwest suburbs and enjoy the performing arts.
Maestro Carmen DeLeone who conducts the IPO, has also been Music Director of the Cincinnati Ballet since 1969, and just last season he also marked his twentieth year as Music Director of the Middletown Symphony in Ohio. At New York’s Carnegie Hall, he has served as Conductor and Host of the «Family Concert» Series, and in Europe, he has conducted frequent performances with the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra.
He is also an accomplished composer and really has a passion for music. His energy and love really come through as does the enthusiasm and passion of all the members of the IPO.
This is really an outstanding experience and a great well kept secret. This past Saturday’s event featured John Adams — The Chairman Dances, W.A. Mozart — Symphony No. 35 in D Major («Haffner»), and Sergei Prokofiev — Piano Concerto No. 3. We also were able to enjoy an incredible appearance by Anthony Molinaro who is a world renowned Piano Soloist and his performance was excellent.