about us

Praised by the New York Times for its “smart, unusual programming,” Parlando brings storytelling to the orchestral concert experience. The “razor-sharp chamber orchestra that exudes the joy of music-making” has quickly become an essential player in the New York classical music scene and is celebrated as “one of NYC’s most exciting chamber orchestras” (New York Classical Review). It was founded in 2019 by conductor Ian Niederhoffer, whose vision of every concert telling a story comes to life through his inventive programs and absorbing insights about the music.

Recognized for making “the classical world appealing to a broad audience while also honoring the listener’s intelligence and curiosity” (New York Classical Review), Parlando provides the musical and historical context to prepare the audience for the music through lively storytelling and short introductions to each piece. This way, the group bridges the gap between audience and performer to deliver engaging and memorable experiences.

Every Parlando program is joined by a common theme that forms a larger story arc, blending standard works with new or underrepresented music. When Parlando performs rarely-heard composers or works, the goal is to feature them not as a novelty but rather as part of a thematic program. By connecting each piece through the shared theme, the concert becomes a story. Parlando strives to leave every audience member knowing more about classical music than they did before the concert.

Since the first concert, in 2019, Parlando programs have used Niederhoffer’s “chili pepper system,” in which each “♪” symbol represents a level of listening difficulty, like chili peppers in a Thai restaurant menu. Paired along with the conductor’s spoken introduction, the rating system guides the audience into an inviting and activating concert experience.