Quick Q&A: Mario Venzago

How does it feel to return to Indy after you were ousted in 2009?
It has always been my desire to return so I could say goodbye. My time as music director came to such a sudden end, and I had no chance to conduct my farewell concert. I want to hand over the two keys I have sitting beside my bed: one to the ISO’s Washington Street door and one to my studio. I never threw them away because I dreamed of the day I could come back.

What excites you about reuniting with the ISO?
I’m very interested in the condition of the orchestra. For seven years, we built a style together, and I’m curious to see where they are now musically. I want to show them where I am.

Any old haunts you plan on visiting?
My favorite restaurant was always Morton’s. When my son Gabriel came with me to Indianapolis, it cost me a fortune to eat there!

This interview originally appeared in the November 2013 issue.