Indianapolis Symphony Pays Tribute to Pop Icons

Annual Symphony on the Prairie concert series features homages to Harry Styles, Queen, and more.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:11pm

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A striking, minimalist illustration featuring bold, jagged shapes in red and black, conceptually representing a symphony orchestra performance in an outdoor setting.The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's annual outdoor summer concert series brings classical and contemporary music together under the stars.Indianapolis Today

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's annual Symphony on the Prairie concert series will feature tribute performances honoring popular music icons like Harry Styles and Queen. Led by ISO Pops Conductor Jack Everly, the outdoor summer concerts will bring the sounds of the symphony together with fan-favorite tribute musicians to celebrate iconic pop songs and artists.

Why it matters

The Symphony on the Prairie series has become a beloved summer tradition in Indianapolis, drawing large crowds to enjoy classical music interpretations of contemporary hits. By incorporating tributes to modern pop stars and bands, the ISO is aiming to attract a younger, more diverse audience and introduce classical music to a new generation of listeners.

The details

This year's Symphony on the Prairie lineup will include special tribute segments honoring the music of Harry Styles and the legendary rock band Queen. Everly, the ISO's Pops Conductor, is known for his ability to blend classical and contemporary styles, bringing "popular music at a heightened level" to the symphony's outdoor summer concerts.

  • The Symphony on the Prairie concert series runs from June through August 2026.
  • The Harry Styles and Queen tribute performances will take place on July 12 and August 9, 2026, respectively.

The players

Jack Everly

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's Pops Conductor, known for his ability to blend classical and contemporary musical styles.

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

A professional symphony orchestra based in Indianapolis, Indiana, that has been performing outdoor summer concerts as part of the Symphony on the Prairie series for over 30 years.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to bring popular music at a heightened level to our Symphony on the Prairie audience this summer.”

— Jack Everly, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Pops Conductor

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Symphony on the Prairie concert series will go on sale to the general public on May 1, 2026.

The takeaway

By incorporating tributes to contemporary pop stars and bands, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is aiming to attract a younger, more diverse audience and introduce classical music to a new generation of listeners through its beloved Symphony on the Prairie summer concert series.