Several ICSOM orchestras publish newsletters, including the musicians of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. This article from their November issue, reprinted by permission, exemplifies the fine writing one can find there. To subscribe, visit https://mailchi.mp/c38aa8355976/isomusicians-subscribe

Have you ever heard classical music spilling down Mass Ave on a Tuesday night? This month we are highlighting a special partnership with The Chatterbox jazz club and Classical Music Indy:

As 8 p.m. approaches on the first Tuesday of every month, casually clad figures with instruments in tow begin to file into the cozy confines of the iconic Mass Ave jazz club, The Chatterbox, for Classical Revolution Tuesday!

Classical Revolution is a national movement, founded in San Francisco in 2006 by Charith Premawardhana, with the goal of inviting musicians of all skill levels to present classical music in casual, nontraditional spaces.

Classical Revolution Indianapolis, a chapter of the international Classical Revolution, hosts musicians from a variety of sources: the Indianapolis Symphony, the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, and the freelance community. These musicians gather in small chamber ensembles to read standard repertoire or try out new works. Strings, winds, brass, and percussion all have taken the club’s small stage.

Enjoying a beverage while talking with colleagues, Chatterbox regulars, and those who just happen across the Chatterbox while visiting our city helps us strengthen bonds with the community, reaching those who might not find classical music otherwise.

Retired ISO cellist Anne McCafferty has served as the organizer of Classical Revolution Indianapolis nearly since its formation in 2011.

“For musicians accustomed to reaching for perfection in a concert hall, Classical Revolution offers a nonjudgmental environment for experimentation, including mistakes, that really connects us to our audience,” says McCafferty. “The idea is to communicate, not impress. For the listener, the expectation of a classical musician is put aside as they see us in our jeans, playing music we love and have a passion for. It’s up close and personal.”

For Chatterbox owner David Andrichik, the addition of a monthly classical chamber music jam that brings in a diverse crowd has further expanded his vision of inclusivity at his club.

“I was certainly intrigued and hoped it would create a new audience and generate weeknight business for my jazz club. Over the years my expectations have been far exceeded! Wonderful music, wonderful musicians, and wonderful new friends!” says Andrichik.

A tip jar gets passed around all night, and the Chatterbox adds a small stipend to help raise money for the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, the New World Youth Orchestras, the Distressed Musicians Fund of the American Federation of Musicians Local 3, and Classical Music Indy, which provides promotional support for Classical Revolution Indianapolis.

The next edition of Classical Revolution Indianapolis is at 8 p.m. on November 5 at the Chatterbox Jazz Club, located at 435 Massachusetts Ave. We hope to see you there!