Story Notes™
A series of performance-ready narrated orchestral concerts developed and conducted by Ian Niederhoffer.
What is Story Notes?
Storytelling at the Symphony. Part concert, part narration, part music appreciation, part history, Story Notes is a series of themed concert programs conducted and narrated by Ian Niederhoffer, each with a compelling narrative arc. Story Notes is ready to be adapted and presented by orchestras of all sizes. Target audience demographics are all ticket buyers who yearn to learn more in an unintimidating format, but all adults will enjoy the programming and presentation.
What Makes It Different?
Unlike traditional pre-concert talks or academic introductions, Story Notes’ format integrates storytelling into the orchestral concert experience. Niederhoffer warmly introduces each piece from the podium with anecdotes and historical storytelling, engaging audiences in an accessible concert without watering down the music.
Why Your Orchestra?
Whether your goal is to attract new audiences, reinvigorate existing subscribers, or elevate community engagement, Story Notes with Ian Niederhoffer offers a way to connect audiences more deeply to your orchestra.
Available Programs
Explore the history of music, cinema, or a custom theme for your community through our series of storytelling concerts.
Music History
• Explore Music History Series: Classical Mastery, Romantic Power & Passion, Modern Voices
• Lights, Camera, Action: The Origins of the Hollywood Sound
• Swinging Strings: When Jazz Meets Classical
• Forbidden Symphonies: When Music is Silenced
Themes
• Symphony of Laughter: Comedy and Classical Music
• Songs of the Earth: Music, Nature and the Environment
• Love Notes: The Music of the Ones That Got Away
Custom Programming for Your Community
• New England on the Silver Screen
• Cowboy Classical
• Custom program for your orchestra and community