If you have never attended a symphony orchestra, the whole experience can be quite surprising. People often have weird ideas about attending a symphony, because they have only heard others talk of their respective experiences. No matter whether you want to attend a simple violin concerto, or an elaborate symphony orchestra, knowing a few basic aspects always comes in handy. Here is a list of common facts about attending a symphony orchestra.
- Every symphony is an orchestra, but every orchestra is not a symphony. That is confusing, isn’t it? Basically, an orchestra refers to a set of musicians playing together, but if the number of musicians is less than 50, it is called a chamber orchestra. On the other hand, when the number of musicians is over 100 or big enough to play a symphony, it is called a symphony orchestra.
- You don’t have to wear formals. Yes, that’s true. It is commonly believed that wearing formals is a must for attending a symphony concern, which isn’t true. You can choose to wear semi-formal clothes, as long as you are not wearing shorts, flip-flops or a sun hat. Just be presentable. Some venues do mention a dress code, so it is still better to ask in advance.
- It is best not to be late for a symphony orchestra. You have to be there at least 30 minutes before the show, and some venues even have pre-shows before the actual concert, which are quite entertaining and can give you a heads-up on what to expect from the experience. If you are late, make sure to wait for the signal of the user to get in. They will find an appropriate pause in the show to let you inside.
- You don’t have to know classical music in depth to enjoy a symphony concert. Make sure that you are just enjoying the format and follow the basic rules. For instance, don’t take calls, do not talk during the show, and if you have to attend a call, ensure that you let the users know.
- Most symphony orchestras for adults are not ideal for kids, primarily because the show lasts for much longer. Ensure that you leave your kids behind, and if you want the child to experience an orchestra, just find a show that has been designed for kids.
Enjoying a symphony orchestra is all about being open to the experience.
