First time at a classical concert? Here’s what you can expect.
If it's your first time seeing an orchestra, don’t worry! It isn't as daunting as it might seem.
Scroll down for everything you need to know about attending a concert. If you still have questions, send us an email and one of our team will get back to you soon
Are concert tickets really expensive?
Classical music has a reputation for being expensive, but many orchestras, including the ACO, have cheaper tickets than you'll expect. We want to keep live music accessible and offer $30 student tickets, $35 tickets for Under 35s, and other concession tickets, for all of our performances.
What should I wear?
Whatever you like! There are some misconceptions that people have to dress up to go to classical music, but that’s not actually the case. Like anything: dress up if it’s a special night out for you, and stay dressed down if you’re attending after something else casual, or simply taking the concert in your stride as another part of your day.
How do I know where I’m sitting?
On your ticket, you will have a seat number, which is usually the row depicted by a letter and the numbered seat along that row. The ticket will also indicate the best level and door for you to enter to find your seat.
I’m running late! What will happen?
If you arrive at a concert after the publicised start time, we recommend you head to the level and door indicated on your ticket, and wait to be admitted at an appropriate break in the performance. Performances will usually include a disclaimer or special note if they cannot accept any latecomers.
Mobile phones and watches, do I need to switch them off?
Please… Or at least switch any alarms off, and mobile phones and watches to silent, during the performance. It’s not because we’re strict, it’s just that some pieces of music will have quieter passages, or deliberate silences, which contribute to the overall atmosphere of the show. The magic is broken when electronic alarms, beeps and rings can be heard over the soft music, and may disturb others.
Can I talk?
Between pieces absolutely, but because our instruments aren’t amplified we ask you to respect everyone’s experience with silence during the performance.
Can I take photos and videos during the music?
We ask that you take photos and short videos ONLY before the concert has started, or after it has ended and to capture applause only. We’re strict about this – again, because we don’t want other music lovers’ experiences at the concert to be spoiled by the sight of phones in the air, and we ask you not to capture the concert on video for rights and resharing restriction reasons. Thank you so much.
Why is nobody clapping?
People tend to clap at the end of each piece, instead of the end of each movement. The easiest approach is to follow their lead, but it's also not a big deal. If you feel impelled to clap and everyone else is anyway, don't worry. Loud cheers after pieces are also totally acceptable!
Wait, what do you mean by a 'movement' (above)?
Lots of orchestral pieces are written in movements, which are distinct sections that make up a whole. Details of each piece's structure are written in your concert program. Our Artistic Director, Richard Tognetti, will sometimes mix things up and keep the Orchestra playing, which creates a segue between movements.
What if I need a break while the concert is still going?
You can leave quietly at any time, and be readmitted if there is a suitable break in the performance.
Can I get food and drink?
Each venue we play in has its own food and drink to choose from, and its own rules around whether or not you can bring it into the concert hall – so please check with bar staff or an usher before you order. But apart from that, yes, certainly, you can usually enjoy a drink and small bite to eat at a concert, before it starts and during the interval.
Can I take my coat and bag into the concert hall?
Like at the theatre, or a club, or the gym, we recommend you take your coat and bag(s) to the sign-posted cloakroom at the venue if they’re large. Venues usually recommend dropping off backpacks and anything larger.
How can I understand the music?
Each performance has a concert program, which you can pick up at the venue, download from your pre-concert email the day before (this may be in your junk folder) or read online a few weeks before the concert. We also try to set the scene with audio and video content on our website, social channels and in our emails. Read all about it – or, simply let it wash over you!
