It varies, but most orchestra concerts are around 90 minutes of music with a 20-minute intermission. Very often there will be several pieces on the concert, but sometimes there is one single work played straight through. You’ll find the length of each piece listed on the event webpage and printed in your program.

The CSO makes every attempt to begin concerts on time. Latecomers will be seated after the conclusion of the first work on the program as not to disturb other listeners. Patrons who leave the hall before or during a work will not be reseated until after the work is completed. Your usher will alert you as soon as it is possible to be seated. House lights are dimmed to indicate that the concert is about to begin.

There is no official dress code, but you’ll see guests wearing everything from jeans to cocktail dresses. Most guests opt for business attire or business casual. Some people enjoy dressing up and making a special night of it while others prefer to dress more laid back. Generally, the only tuxes you’ll see are on stage. Anything that makes you feel comfortable is appropriate. (The hosts of “What Not to Wear” will NOT be attending any performances!)

When to applaud at a symphony concert is the number-one scary question. So much so it keeps potential audience members from attending a concert and they miss out on a wonderful experience. No one wants to clap in the “wrong” place.

We encourage the audience to clap when they are moved to do so! If the music is so excellent the audience can’t restrain itself, it’s perfectly acceptable to applaud between movements if you enjoyed the music.

Absolutely! Prior to each concert we often have a pre-concert talk in the Robert Adams room (see details in the concert listing pages) and chamber music performances in the lobby from area schools and groups, as well as drinks and food available for purchase. This is a wonderful time to meet your friends, find your seats and make yourself comfortable before the concert. If you’re unable to attend the pre-concert talk, plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before the concert starts so you can grab a drink, find your seat and have some time to read the concert program

The CSO prides itself on being an experience adults and children of all ages can enjoy. Boxed seats are often a wonderful option for children, as they give more space and privacy to families and groups. We only ask that you please be respectful of others trying to enjoy the beautiful music along with you.

The concertmaster sits in the first chair of the first violins. She or he acts as leader of that section, but also plays a leadership role with the orchestra as a whole. The concertmaster is also the last orchestra musician to enter the stage before a concert, and cues the orchestra to tune before the conductor walks out on stage.

Cell phones, candy wrappers and hacking coughs, life happens. But cell phones and alarm watches should be turned on silent while in the hall. The CSO appreciates the audience’s cooperation in avoiding any extraneous sounds that may distract the musicians or other audience members during concerts.

Non-flash photography by silenced handheld devices is allowed during CSO performances, but be mindful of distracting others. The glow from your device screen can disrupt the audience members behind you and should be dimmed. Feel free to share your photos on social media and tag us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!