First Timers Guide

First Timer's Guide

Here are some tips for enjoying your first classical music event:

Embrace the Spectacle: Classical concerts offer more than just music. Watch the fascinating interactions between the conductor and the orchestra, where a simple baton gesture can unleash incredible sonic power.
Appreciate the Skill: Classical musicians are masters of their craft, honing their skills over decades of rigorous training.
Understand the Composer: Learning about the composer and their intentions can deepen your appreciation. Whether they were saints or controversial figures, knowing their story enriches the music.
Expand Your Musical Horizons: Exposing yourself to new sounds can broaden your musical taste. The more you listen, the more you're likely to enjoy.
Stay for the Encore: If the audience shows enough enthusiasm, you might be treated to an additional piece at the end of the concert.

Enjoy your first classical music experience to the fullest!

Below are some of the questions that we hear from first time visitors.

Use the categories below to view questions around each topic.

Concert Etiquette

Digital Program Books

About The Music

The first violin, called the Concertmaster, is the last musician on stage. They will stand and indicate that it’s time for the orchestra to tune. Once the orchestra has tuned, the conductor will come on stage and begin the performance.
For pieces with multiple movements, clapping is typically only done after the final movement of the piece. The conductor will signal the end of the final note with their baton or hand and often bow to the orchestra.
During pieces with multiple movements, there is a short, silent pause between each movement. Your program will list the number of movements in each piece (if any).
At the end of the performance, there will occasionally be an additional piece called an encore performed by the orchestra.