(photo courtesy of the ISO)

Both sides now say they are refraining from public comment on the contract talks between the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (I.S.O.) and its musician's union, which are being conducted with the assistance of a federal mediator. 

In a prepared statement released by the Indiana Symphony Society, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Commissioner  Conrad Bowling commended negotiators for what he called "good faith dialogue and progress" during meetings held earlier this week. The statement says more meetings are scheduled. 

With no agreement in place, the I.S.O. has canceled the first two weeks of its new season and the musicians have been locked out.