Many times, those new to classical music are nervous about attending concerts because they don’t know what to expect, and they may have heard that it is kind of “stuffy” with lots of rules. Relax! Classical music isn’t as intimidating as you might think. Use the tips on this page as a starting point to help you fully experience the wonderful classical music performed by the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, whether it is your first time attending an orchestral concert or you are a seasoned concertgoer.
What do I wear?
Our performers will generally be in formal attire, unless we are having a special event such as a movie music night where you might see performers dressed in Star Wars or Harry Potter attire! As an audience member, however, you can wear whatever is comfortable for you. A good guide might be your personal dress code for dinner with friends, or “smart casual”. But you will probably see other concert-goers in everything from relatively dressy attire to a T-shirt and jeans, so you can feel comfortable wearing anything in this range. If you wear a hat, don’t forget to remove it during the performance so as not to block anyone’s view of the stage.
How long is a typical performance?
The program length varies for every concert. Maryland Symphony Orchestra performances usually last about two hours, including one 20-minute intermission. The approximate length of each work is also provided in the program book that you’ll receive when you enter the auditorium.
Electronic Devices
Take a break from technology! Please turn off/set to vibrate your cell phones, pagers, watch alarms, and other electronic devices for the duration of the performance. However, if you want to share your location on social media, that would be great! Just try not to disrupt the performance experience for your neighbors.
Where should I sit?
It may take you several concerts to decide where you prefer to sit. Do you want to be on the left side of the auditorium close to the front and watch the percussion section or a featured pianist? Do you want to be in the center near the back and see the bigger picture of the whole performance? Do you want to be nearer the front on the right and keep a close eye on the cellos and bass players? If you want some recommendations, just give our Box Office a call at (301) 797-4000. We receive these types of questions all the time!
Late Seating
If you arrive late, you will need to wait for a break between pieces for an usher to seat you in the theatre. Our ushers will try to get you to your seat as soon as possible. Don’t worry; you are welcome to watch the concert from the rear of the auditorium until there’s an appropriate break in the music. Please try to arrive in plenty of time to get seated before the lights dim and the concert begins.
When do I applaud?
Always clap at the entrance of the Concertmaster, any soloists, and the Conductor/Concert Maestro, at the end of each piece.
If you are uncertain, follow the seasoned concert goers on this. You should be able to determine these by looking over the program page which generally lists individual movements of longer compositions. In addition, the program notes should help you follow the orchestra’s progress through each piece.
Can I bring food & drinks into the theatre?
Yes, food and drinks are permitted inside The Maryland Theatre auditorium. Please be respectful to the musicians and other concert-goers when unwrapping your snacks. Best practice is to remove packaging prior to the performance.
Are children allowed to attend?
While there is no ‘one age fits all’ answer to this question, we strongly encourage only children ages 5 and up attend our concerts. Performance length varies, but a typical MSO concert runs approximately two hours with one intermission. Some individual pieces may last an hour or more. Children should be accustomed to sitting quietly and attentively for this amount of time.
Please note that every person attending the concert, regardless of age, must have a ticket to enter the concert hall. For classical performances, all children, including students in grades K-12, and currently enrolled college students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible to attend for FREE*! Simply contact our Box Office to order those complimentary tickets.
* The FREE student ticket program is only available for classical performances and is limited to non-premium seating sections. Looking for an upgrade? A student discount is available for premium seating sections at classical performances.
What is the policy on lap seating?
Performances by the Maryland Symphony Orchestra offer a fantastic opportunity to introduce children to the joy and excitement of instrumental music. Beyond our classical series, we present other performances, including Home for the Holidays, MSO Pops!, and licensed film with orchestra presentations. Please note that complimentary lap seating is not available for these performances. All patrons, regardless of age, including infants and toddlers, are required to have a ticket to attend. This is generally due to contractual agreements with the artistic agencies that license the material to us for performance.
Can I record or photograph the performance?
No. Photography, video and audio recording during MSO performances is strictly prohibited. On occasion, you may see staff and professional photographers or videographer capturing the concert. Your use of a ticket constitutes acknowledgement of willingness to appear in photographs and video taken in public areas.
