Zach De Pue’s trio gets an upgrade

IBJ reporter Kathleen McLaughlin takes the reigns of the blog today, with a report on a new development at the ISO.

The
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra has formed its first ensemble-in-residence with concertmaster Zach De Pue’s side project Time
for Three.

The new relationship was announced today, along with additional, free performances.

The program,
which will last three years, is a twist on past ISO residencies, which have involved soloists or composers. Spokeswoman Jessica
DiSanto said the ISO wanted to capitalize on Time for Three’s ability to grab young audiences, and the ensemble wanted a chance
to work more often with local students.

Today’s announcement adds performances outside Hilbert Circle Theatre. The
trio also plans to establish relationships with the music programs at Broad Ripple and Perry Meridian high schools. "This
is part of a new audience-engagement strategy," DiSanto said.

The trio formed while DePue, who is one of the
youngest concertmasters in the country, fellow violinist Nick Kendall and double bassist Ranaan Meyer were studying at the
Curtis Institute in Philadelphia. They describe themselves as a "classically trained garage band," blending bluegrass,
country and jazz.

Terms of their contract were not disclosed. DiSanto said the residency has been contemplated for
the past year, and was worked into the ISO’s 2009-10 artistic and educational budgets. In some cases, the musicians will donate
their time, or it will be underwritten by donors, she said.

Time for Three had already been scheduled for several
performances as part of the ISO’s current season. Additional dates were announced today.

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