Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

The '''Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra''' (IPO) is a prominent symphonic ensemble based in the greater Chicago region, known for its commitment to delivering professional orchestral music of the highest caliber. As it celebrates its 45th anniversary, the IPO stands as a beacon of musical excellence, with a diverse repertoire that spans Baroque and Classical masterpieces to contemporary works and world premieres. The orchestra has been honored by the Illinois Council of Orchestras as the Illinois Professional Orchestra of the Year in 1992, 2010, and 2020, a testament to its artistic excellence. ===Mission=== The mission of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra is to provide concerts of compelling professional symphonic music, support music education, and expand audience awareness of musical excellence for the diverse communities of the greater Chicago region. ===Seasons and Performances=== The 2022-23 season marks a significant milestone for the IPO, featuring an impressive lineup of seven concerts with both principal IPO musicians and distinguished guest artists, including violinist Netanel Draiblate, Grammy Award winner Bill McMurray, cellists Oliver Herbert, Inbal Segev, and Sonia Mantell, as well as violist Matthew Lipman. The season's opening night took place on October 15th and all performances are held at the Ozinga Chapel on the campus of Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights. ===History=== The origins of the IPO can be traced back to 1954 when it was established as the Park Forest Orchestra, a community ensemble composed of volunteer musicians. In 1978, it transitioned into a professional chamber orchestra performing in Park Forest and was renamed in 1982 to reflect its broader regional mission. A pivotal moment in the IPO's history was the appointment of Carmon DeLeone as Music Director in 1986, who significantly expanded the orchestra's educational outreach through the Artists-in-the-Schools Education Program and interactive Youth Concerts. Throughout the 1990s, the IPO was in residence at the Center for the Performing Arts at Governors State University in University Park. In 2008, the orchestra moved to the Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center in Frankfort, seeking a more centralized location. Carmon DeLeone was named Conductor Laureate in 2011, and the IPO continued to evolve with the tenures of David Danzmayr (2012-2016) and Stilian Kirov (appointed in 2017), who introduced the Classical Evolve Composer-in-Residence Competition. ===Leadership and Vision=== Under the guidance of a 22-member Board of Directors and senior staff, the IPO is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Chicago's Southland through a broad spectrum of musical offerings. The organization has recently emphasized a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, striving to reflect these values in all aspects of its operations. The IPO's leadership is focused on fostering community partnerships, programming growth, and ensuring a strong fiscal foundation for the orchestra's future. ===Outreach and Education=== The IPO is not only known for its performances but also for its engagement with the community through youth programs, adult learning opportunities, and educational initiatives like the Mini Virtual Performances and the Check Out IPO Library Program. These efforts underscore the orchestra's belief in the transformative power of high-quality music and music education. For more detailed information on the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, interested parties are encouraged to read the IPO Statement of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) available on their website.