ISO Reports Record Sales, Budget Deficit

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is one of the recipients.

The Indiana Symphony Society Inc. is reporting $8.49 million in ticket sales during the 2015-2016 season, which is a 15 percent increase over the previous year. Despite the record number, the organization says the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra ended the year with a $561,000 deficit.

The ISS says total operating income for the year was $25.3 million, up 6.2 percent from the previous year. However, the organization says the deficit is largely due to a 78 percent increase in medical claims expense and inclement weather during the Marsh Symphony on the Prairie Season.

Outgoing ISS Board Chair Vince Caponi says annual fundraising hit $9.3 million during the season, marking the fourth consecutive year that annual contributions surpassed $9 million. The organization also saw increases in subscription revenues and student tickets sold with total operating revenue increasing 6.2 percent over the previous year.

The ISS says much of its success during the season was due to Krzysztof Urbanski’s fifth season as ISO music director and milestone events, including the 30th anniversary of the IPL Yuletide Celebration and the 20th anniversary of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra.

"As we reflect on the many wonderful accomplishments of the past season, the Board of Directors reaffirms its commitment to achieving our artistic goals while operating the institution in a fiscally responsible manner," said Caponi. "On behalf of our Board, I express my gratitude to Krzysztof, Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly, the wonderful ISO musicians, our staff, patrons, and community for their ongoing dedication to the ISO."

The ISS Board of Directors also named Yvonne Shaheen as its new chair. Six new members were elected to the board as well.

You can view the full 2015-2016 annual report below: