New to the Symphony?
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. If you still have any questions or concerns, please contact our Ticket Office at 704.972.2000.
What is a symphony orchestra?
A symphony orchestra is a large ensemble of players of musical instruments arranged in sections or “families” – namely, the strings, the woodwinds, the brass, and the percussion. Instruments you will see in these sections consist of violins, violas, cellos, double basses, and harps; flutes, oboes, clarinets, and bassoons (with the occasional contrabassoon); trumpets, French horns, trombones, and tubas; and timpani, snare drums, bass drums, xylophones, and many other percussion instruments.
How do I purchase tickets?
You may contact the Ticket Office at 704.972.2000. Ticket Office hours are Monday through Friday 10:00am-5:30pm and 10:00am-12:00pm on concert Saturdays (Belk Theater only). You may also purchase online through this website.
What should I wear?
There is no formal dress code; you will see people in everything from jeans and T-shirts to tuxedoes and cocktail dresses. Most people, however, wear business attire (jackets and slacks for men, and casual dresses or pantsuits for women).
When should I arrive?
At least 30 minutes before the concert. This leaves you plenty of time for parking, picking up your tickets if they are at Will Call, locating the bathroom, finding your seat, and reviewing the program. Classics series pre-concert talks, “Musically Speaking,” begin at 7pm and offer an entertaining introduction to the evening’s concert.
What happens if I arrive late?
As a courtesy to all patrons, late-comers will not be seated until the first appropriate pause in the music. We will do all that we can to get you into the concert hall as soon as possible.
Where should I park?
There are many options for parking near our performing centers. Please visit our parking page for further details: http://www.charlottesymphony.org/Parking.asp
What if I’ve misplaced my tickets?
Call the Ticket Office at 704.972.2000 or come to the Performing Arts Center Box Office the night of the performance. We will reissue your tickets.
May I exchange my tickets?
Yes. Patrons who are unable to attend a concert for which they have already purchased tickets may exchange into another concert, or return tickets and receive a tax credit.
Are refreshments available?
Yes, refreshments are available for purchase in each lobby before the performance and at intermission.
Do you offer listening devices?
Yes. Infrared listening devices for the hearing impaired are available at Coat Check.
Do I have to turn off my phone?
Yes. Please be sure your cellular phone and other electronic devices are silenced.
May I take photographs or videos during the performance?
No. Unauthorized photographic, audio recording, and video equipment may not be used during the performance.
When do I applaud?
Applaud when the entire piece is over, not at the end of a movement. Review your program to know how many movements - or sections - there are in each piece. Another hint is to watch the conductor: When the baton goes down, and the conductor turns to the audience, the piece is finished. |
