Fort Wayne Philharmonic Cancels Summer Patriotic Pops Concerts

James Cultural Plaza Summer Series Concerts Remain Scheduled

As the health and welfare of the musicians, audiences, and staff are of the utmost importance, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic today announced that all Patriotic Pops concerts scheduled between June 26 to July 4 are now canceled. However, concerts scheduled as part of the second annual James Cultural Plaza Summer Series in downtown Auburn will remain scheduled for July 14, August 15, and September 6.

This decision is based on the measures outlined in Governor Holcomb's Roadmap to Safely Reopen Indiana. That includes specific guidelines about curtailing activities like concerts of this nature until after July 4. The Philharmonic will communicate further plans as more is learned from governmental health officials and directives are issued by the Governor's Office.

Said Music Director Andrew Constantine:  “We are again sorry to disappoint our loyal audiences who have come to revere the annual summer concerts performed all throughout Northeast Indiana. Patriotic repertory brings us all together like no other music, and we regret having to curtail these activities because of the current health crisis. We will continue to do our best to reach audiences on various media platforms with the beauty of music as we work through this challenging period. Please stay tuned for more information as plans continually are being developed.”

MUSICIAN AND STAFF SALARIES ARE ENSURED

While many businesses across the country are furloughing employees, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Board of Directors has generously committed to supporting the financial wellbeing of its musicians, arts administrators, and their families through the end of the 2019-2020 fiscal year.

While the orchestra will not be performing, the Board of Directors will pay Fort Wayne Philharmonic musicians for the summer concerts. 

Said Board Chair Chuck Surack:  “Thanks to our loyal audiences for remaining steadfast in their support of the Orchestra. I am pleased to report that the Board will continue pay our musicians through the end of the fiscal year. We look forward to the day when we can once again perform live concerts for our ardent supporters.”

The following Patriotic Pops concert dates and locations have been canceled.

Fri, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.            DeKalb Outdoor Theater in Auburn

Sun, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.          Oakwood Resort in Syracuse

Wed, July 1 at 7:00 p.m.            Ouabache State Park in Bluffton

Thu, July 2 at 7:30 p.m.              Pokagon State Park in Angola

Fri, July 3 at 8:30 p.m.                Parkview Field in Fort Wayne

Sat, July 4 at 8:30 p.m.               Bixler Lake in Kendallville

James Cultural Plaza Summer Series Performances Remain Scheduled

Due to its open seating design and stage perfectly suited for adequate social distancing, the Philharmonic is scheduled to present small ensembles on three dates as part of the James Cultural Plaza Summer Series. All concerts will run for 1-hour with no intermissions. These concerts are free to the public through the generous support of The James Foundation.

The James Cultural Plaza is located at 208 W. 7th Street in the heart of downtown Auburn and has been designed to cultivate and support cultural and community activities. The James Foundation, Inc. believes that by serving as civic stewards, the quality of life will be enriched, acting as a catalyst to strengthen both families and the community. By enhancing existing social platforms and providing new educational and cultural opportunities, citizens will be inspired to initiate and cultivate positive changes in all life experiences, nourishing vitality across the community.

The following concert dates have been scheduled.

Tuesday, July 14 at 8:30 p.m. - Brass Quintet

Saturday, August 15 at 8:30 p.m. - The Resonators (Percussion, Harp, Violin, and Bass)

Sunday, September 6 at 8:30 p.m. - Flute, Oboe and Cello trio

In an effort to remain in compliance with current health practices, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Box Office will be closed to public access until further notice. However, Box Office personnel can be contacted at fwphil.org or by calling 260.481.0777. Please leave a message when promoted and calls will be returned as soon as possible. 

2020-2021 Subscription purchases remain the best way to ensure the stability of the 2020-2021 Season. Subscribers will receive additional benefits like free exchanges and savings on additional single ticket purchases, and only subscribers are guaranteed the very best seats at the very best prices. More information about becoming a subscriber is available at fwphil.org.