FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE

Prepare Yourself to Attend a Classical Concert
No one likes the unknown and we definitely don’t want to feel foolish. Many people aren’t sure what to expect from a classical concert and will never attend. A classical concert is really quite enjoyable and is really not as intimidating as it appears. Let us help you make the most of your classical concert experience by breaking some of the myths, offering a heads-up on what it will be like and hopefully make your classical concert experience a wonderful one.

Top 5 Myths

Myth #1: Only old people attend the classical concerts.

Reality: The classical concert attendee’s age is varied. Retirees do make up a large part of our audience, yet so do business people who are at the height of their careers, young couples who crave an elegant night out without their small children, and college thru middle school students who have an interest in music.

Myth #2: Everyone wears evening gowns and tuxedos.

Reality: Many people do enjoy "dressing up" in formal attire for a concert but this is not required attire. Generally most concertgoers wear business or cocktail attire.

Myth #3: If I clap at the wrong time, I will get kicked out.

Reality: Like any other event, the classical concert does have some etiquette you will want to observe. It is considered proper to clap only after a piece is complete. Most pieces have more than one movement which is designated in your program book and indicated by the orchestra with a slight pause of 15 to 30 seconds between movements. If the piece has four movements you’ll know your in the last movement after you hear three pauses. If all else fails, simply wait until the conductor faces the audience and you’ll know it’s time to clap. If you are particularly moved by a piece you may just get lost in the music, forget yourself and clap after a movement – that’s okay, we are glad you were swept away!

Myth #4: I will not recognize any of the music.

Reality: You will recognize more music than you think. The term “classical music” can mean a variety of music. It could include a wide variety of styles from concerto to tango. Generally, classical music is played by a symphonic ensemble comprised of strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. In fact, many popular movies, television shows and commercials use classical music to set a mood.

Myth #5: It is expensive to attend a classical concert.

The Southwest Florida Symphony strives to keep concerts affordable and offers a wide variety of programs. School age children and their families can join the Campus Chord Club where tickets cost as little as $5. College students can participate in Student Rush tickets that run $5. Balcony seats are $18 and Series Subscriptions offer a 20% savings over single ticket prices.