FAQs and What to Expect
I have never been to an orchestra concert - what can I expect?
Many people have preconceived notions about what orchestras are all about, that they are stuffy and for the old and rich. Let us be the first to tell you that that is not true at all! The orchestra is for everyone! We program pieces we know everyone will enjoy.
You can expect to:
- Enjoy yourself!
- Have a musical experience
- Learn something!
The orchestra experience is a personal experience and everyone's is different. If you are unsure whether or not you will like it, find someone to go with, stay after and chat with musicians and conductor, or shoot us a message through the contact button with your questions or concerns.
When should I show up for a concert?
Get there early! About a half hour before concert time, conductor Jim Van Eizenga gives a pre-concert talk. He discusses what music you will be hearing in the evening and what to listen for. Also, there will be time to ask you questions about the orchestra or the music. This is also give you time to look through the program at our sponsors and season notes and take in the atmosphere of the concert hall.
May I take pictures?
Before and after the concert are OK times to take pictures. Flash photography is never OK when musicians are performing.
Are there discount for students?
Yes! The Gaylord Community Orchestra supports student attendance. Student admission is always free or reduced.
What is appropriate attire for a concert?
We believe that people enjoy music best when they are most comfortable. While the orchestra will be dressed in tuxedos and "concert black," we want you to wear whatever will help you best enjoy the music. Some dress to the nines for concerts. (When Jim goes to a concert, he often wears jeans and a sweatshirt.)
I am not sure when it is appropriate to clap...
This is one of the most common questions we get. At the beginning of the concert, the concertmaster will come onstage after the orchestra has taken their seats. It is appropriate to clap for them as a welcome and shows appreciation for the orchestra. The conductor will walk and on the orchestra will stand up. Again, it is appropriate to clap here as a sign of welcome and appreciation.
After and during the music: Generally, a good rule to follow is to clap when the conductor puts his hands down. However, when a piece has multiple movements (listed in the program) it is generally good etiquette not to clap in between movements. If you happen to enjoy a movement a lot and feel led to clap, feel free to do so!
What do I do if I get to the concert late?
If you arrive late, no problem; just wait for an appropriate pause in the music then come in a take a seat. An appropriate pause would be after a piece has finished, while the audience is clapping, or in between movements.
Many people have preconceived notions about what orchestras are all about, that they are stuffy and for the old and rich. Let us be the first to tell you that that is not true at all! The orchestra is for everyone! We program pieces we know everyone will enjoy.
You can expect to:
- Enjoy yourself!
- Have a musical experience
- Learn something!
The orchestra experience is a personal experience and everyone's is different. If you are unsure whether or not you will like it, find someone to go with, stay after and chat with musicians and conductor, or shoot us a message through the contact button with your questions or concerns.
When should I show up for a concert?
Get there early! About a half hour before concert time, conductor Jim Van Eizenga gives a pre-concert talk. He discusses what music you will be hearing in the evening and what to listen for. Also, there will be time to ask you questions about the orchestra or the music. This is also give you time to look through the program at our sponsors and season notes and take in the atmosphere of the concert hall.
May I take pictures?
Before and after the concert are OK times to take pictures. Flash photography is never OK when musicians are performing.
Are there discount for students?
Yes! The Gaylord Community Orchestra supports student attendance. Student admission is always free or reduced.
What is appropriate attire for a concert?
We believe that people enjoy music best when they are most comfortable. While the orchestra will be dressed in tuxedos and "concert black," we want you to wear whatever will help you best enjoy the music. Some dress to the nines for concerts. (When Jim goes to a concert, he often wears jeans and a sweatshirt.)
I am not sure when it is appropriate to clap...
This is one of the most common questions we get. At the beginning of the concert, the concertmaster will come onstage after the orchestra has taken their seats. It is appropriate to clap for them as a welcome and shows appreciation for the orchestra. The conductor will walk and on the orchestra will stand up. Again, it is appropriate to clap here as a sign of welcome and appreciation.
After and during the music: Generally, a good rule to follow is to clap when the conductor puts his hands down. However, when a piece has multiple movements (listed in the program) it is generally good etiquette not to clap in between movements. If you happen to enjoy a movement a lot and feel led to clap, feel free to do so!
What do I do if I get to the concert late?
If you arrive late, no problem; just wait for an appropriate pause in the music then come in a take a seat. An appropriate pause would be after a piece has finished, while the audience is clapping, or in between movements.
