Join Emmy-winning filmmaker and arts commentator Tom Alvarez as he sits down with Stephen McCoy, executive director of the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus (IMC), to explore the transformative power of music. From Pride parades to classical performances, Stephen shares how music builds community, gives purpose, and even saves lives.

Tom: “It’s amazing how music brings people together—politics, background, nothing matters once the music starts.”

Stephen: “There’s a kid in that choir you’re keeping alive because they have a sense of purpose. Music feeds the soul, builds community, and heals.”

From his early days with the Pride of Indy Band, through personal struggles with addiction, to leading IMC and other arts nonprofits, Stephen’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and heart.

They also dive into:

• The evolution of IMC and its 100+ talented singers 🎤
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• How music fosters inclusivity and connection ❤️
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• Stories from Pride, Fringe performances, and more 🌈
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• Tips for supporting local arts and joining the chorus experience

Stephen: “You don’t have to be gay to come to our shows. We’re a family of artists, and everyone in the audience is part of that family too.”

Tom: “It’s inspiring to see a chorus turn challenges into art and community impact.”

📅 Upcoming IMC Shows & More Info: indianapolismenschorus.org

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Broadcasting pioneer, author, educator, playwright, and Brown County Playhouse Foundation Board Member, Lyn Letsinger-Miller. In this episode, Lynn discusses her long-standing friendship with Tom, their shared broadcasting history, and their mutual connections with legendary figures in television. They recount personal stories from their careers, including working in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis, and significant interactions with influences such as Hilliard Gates and Howard Caldwell. The conversation transitions to Lynn’s involvement with the Brown County Art Gallery, where she serves as the president. She dives into the gallery's rich history, the upcoming centennial celebrations, and her projects in promoting visual arts and local culture, including a specific focus on a play about Selma Steele and her artistic contributions. The dialogue illustrates how their past experiences in broadcasting continue to impact their current endeavors in the arts.

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Opera singer, songwriter and music producer Ashley Nicole Soprano. They discuss her stage name's origin, her journey as a coloratura soprano, and her background in both piano and voice. Ashley shares her experiences performing with the Gregory Hancock Dance Company and explores her training and career choices, including her education at Butler University and the pivotal role her voice teachers played. She reflects on her love for classical crossover and recounts how the pandemic influenced her musical endeavors. Ashley also highlights the importance of discipline, professionalism, and manifesting her dreams. Additionally, she talks about her upcoming performance with Anthony Nunziata and her aspirations to impact others through her music.

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Cindy Collins, co-founder of the Actors Theatre of Indiana (ATI). Cindy discusses her journey from New York City to Indiana, detailing the inception and growth of ATI. She shares insights into her artistic collaborations with Judy Fitzgerald and Don Farrell, and her personal evolution in the theater world. Cindy also reflects on her experiences in theater, including her roles in various productions such as 'Sweeney Todd,' 'Fun Home,' and 'The Rocky Horror Show.' She briefly mentions the upcoming ATI season and highlights the value of live performance. The conversation wraps up with Cindy's thoughts on the importance of live theater and the camaraderie it fosters among audiences and performers.

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Jeff McDermott, the President and CEO of the Allies Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. They discuss Jeff's transition from a 30-year law career to leading a prominent arts center, the impact of supportive families and community pioneers, and the successful programming and diverse offerings of the center.

Highlights include the upcoming 15th anniversary season, the Great American Songbook Foundation, and the ongoing efforts to enhance the community's engagement with the arts through diverse and world-class performances. Jeff shares anecdotes about past CEOs, his journey in the arts, and the collaborative and welcoming nature of the center.

The episode also explores future plans, including the development of a museum in partnership with the Grammy Museum, and emphasizes Jeff's pride in the center's achievements and ongoing growth.

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Maestro Dr. Eric Stark, a distinguished figure in the American choral scene. Dr. Stark shares his background, from growing up in Columbus, Indiana, to studying at Wabash College and Indiana University's renowned Jacobs School of Music. He delves into his experiences living in Europe, his discovery of a passion for choral music, and his journey through various teaching positions that eventually led to his long-standing role at Butler University. Dr. Stark also discusses his tenure with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir, his unique programming choices, and the profound relationships he has built with his singers. The conversation touches on the importance of diversity in the arts and future plans for the Symphonic Choir, highlighting upcoming performances and Dr. Stark’s ongoing commitment to making music accessible and inclusive.

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On this episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" with Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarasota Performing Arts Center, who reminisces about her multifaceted career in the performing arts. From her Cuban immigrant roots and early love for ballet to holding executive roles at prominent arts organizations across the US, Tania shares her journey. She discusses her significant contributions to institutions like the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Indiana, the Auditorium Theater in Chicago, and Miami City Ballet. Now, as the Chief Executive Officer of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, she talks about her latest exciting project involving renowned architect Renzo Piano. Alongside her professional insights, Tania offers personal stories about her family, including her marriage to former Bolshoi Ballet dancer Alexei and raising twins with rich cultural influences. This episode offers an engaging perspective on arts leadership, personal growth, and the transformative power of the arts.

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On this two part episode, Tom goes "On the Aisle" in a heartfelt interview with renowned pop and jazz artist Ann Hampton Callaway. The discussion covers her collaborations, including a special project with Melissa Manchester and the Diva Jazz Orchestra. Ann shares insights about her recent works, such as her CD 'Tapping Through Life', a tribute to Maurice Hines, and her upcoming show 'Finding Beauty Inspired Classics and Originals' at the Jazz Kitchen in Indianapolis. The episode also features an "Encore Series" interview from 2009 with the late Marvin Hamlish, reflecting on his celebrated career. Between conversations, listeners are treated to Ann’s original songs, enhancing the rich musical journey of the episode.

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