Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra Is Keeping Score

After 27 years at the podium, maestro Kirk Trevor is leaving the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. And in a surprising twist, the ICO has concocted a reality TV-style showdown between three finalists to replace him. So far this season two of them have led a performance with the ICO in front of a live audience. This month, the last finalist takes the stage, where he’ll be judged by the orchestra itself—looking for the likes of rapport with the musicians and skill maintaining tempo. Here, the candidates.

Kelly CorcoranConducting style: Crisp and entergetic

Currently in her eighth season with the Nashville Symphony and Chorus, Corcoran has collaborated with artists such as Bela Fleck, Brad Paisley, and Amy Grant. Originally from Massachusetts, Corcoran got her M.A. in music at IU. She conducted the ICO in September.

Matthew Kraemer
Conducting style: Flowing and stately

A Richmond native, Kraemer has spent the last several years reinvigorating the Butler County Symphony and the Erie Chamber Orchestra in Pennsylvania. On the side, he often works with Broadway sensation Idina Menzel. He will lea the ICO at the Schrott Center on Jan. 30.

Mischa Santora
Conducting style: Wide and expressive

Born in the Netherlands, Santora has guest-conducted on five continents and claims a special love for new music. Having settled in the Midwest, he was music director of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra for 14 years. He conducted the ICO in November.

Photos by Tony Valainis