What comes to mind when you think of an orchestra concert? For those that have never been, the typical might be things you see in the movies: societies upper echelon in fancy dresses and tuxedos, mingling about and listening to music composed by the likes of Bach and Mozart. For those in our Lincolnway area that have been to a concert, it might be having to drive into downtown Chicago and fight the horrendous traffic, pay an arm and a leg for parking, and of course the high price of the ticket itself.
Not anymore.
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO) has been part of our local community for nearly 50 years and performs nearby in Palos Heights. An award-winning professional orchestra, IPO has been recognized numerous times for their impeccable musicianship, most notably by the Illinois
Council of Orchestras as they have named IPO the “Illinois Professional Orchestra of the Year” in 2020,
2010, and 1991.
As for the music, of course they perform the classical greats, but they also indulge in some more
recognizable, contemporary music as well. IPO’s upcoming season features a wide range of
selections from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 (I guarantee you know it, just Google it and you’ll see) to a night of legendary movie music from Superman, Jaws, Harry Potter, and more. Other concerts feature a nice mix, such as the November 15 program which features classical favorite The Planets with visuals by Adrian Wyard alongside music from Star Trek and E.T.
Want to make it dinner and a concert? On concert nights, IPO concertgoers can visit one of the local IPO Dine partners and receive 15% off the bill. The partners are wonderful area favorites as well including three area Francesca’s locations (Frankfort, Oak Lawn and Palos Park) as well as Vinny’s Clam Bar in Tinley Park.
No need to get all gussied up for the concert either. Fans attend concerts in a wide range of attire
ranging from business casual to nice jeans and a collared shirt. Of course, you are more than welcome to dress to the nines, it’s just not required.
Tickets to all IPO concerts start at just $25. For more information, visit IPOmusic.org.