What to Expect

Your concert day, step by step!

Never been to the symphony before? No problem! Here is exactly what happens from the moment you arrive to the final bow.

What to Expect on Concert Day

Finding Your Seat
Use your ticket (or phone) to find your section, row, and seat. There are helpful people throughout the theatre (called ushers) who are happy to help! Getting to your seat 10–15 minutes before the concert starts gives you a chance to read the program. Unlike other concerts, the doors close during the performance, and late arrivals will have to wait until the first piece finishes to be seated.
The Lights Dim
The “house lights” (lights in the halls outside of the actual auditorium) usually flash 5 minutes before the show starts. This helps everyone know it’s time to take their seat and turn off their electronic devices. The auditorium lights will dim right before the concert begins so everyone can see the musicians better.
Tuning Up
The concertmaster (first violinist) will then walk out on stage. We applaud to show them and the orchestra our appreciation. They’ll then invite the oboe to play a single note: an ‘A’. One by one, musicians will start playing to match that note and tune their instruments. If you listen carefully, you’ll hear the woodwinds tune first, then the brass, and finally the strings.
The Conductor Arrives
Now that the orchestra is tuned and ready to go, the conductor walks out. Don’t forget to welcome the conductor to the stage with your applause!
The Music Begins
At this point, sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of your Columbus Symphony Orchestra. While each concert is different, many concerts are about as long as a movie. It’s nice to applaud at the end of a piece. Fun fact: some pieces have pauses between sections called movements. If you’re not sure whether it’s really over, just watch the conductor!
Intermissions
Some concerts include a short break in the middle to allow people to stretch, use the restroom, or grab a quick drink before the second half begins.
Final Bows
When a piece truly ends, the conductor will lower their hands and face the audience. Sometimes, they’ll even recognize individual musicians that were featured in the music. The musicians and conductor may even take a bow before the concert ends and house lights come back up.

Other Quick Tips

🥤

Concessions are available at the Ohio Theatre before the show and during intermission, but be sure to check if food and drinks are allowed at your seat for the show you're attending!

📸

Feel free to take photos and record video before and after the concert! Just switch your device off before the music starts, since screens and flashes are distracting to the musicians and the audience around you.