Driving directions to our concert venues can be found on the Venues / Locations page.
If you're new...
Welcome to the RSO! We couldn't be happier that you're joining our audience. If you're a symphony newbie, the following tips and hints have been compiled from common questions and are designed to help you feel like a regular!
What should I wear?
You'll notice apparel ranging from jeans to business casual to after-five evening wear. In the end, there is no strict dress code! But many people wear what they might wear to church; as an example.
What time should I arrive for a performance?
It is best to arrive at least one-half hour or more before the scheduled performance begins. This leaves time for parking (the ease of which can vary), picking up tickets, visiting the restroom and finding your seat.
What happens if I arrive late?
In consideration of the comfort and listening pleasure of the audience, patrons who arrive after the concert begins will be asked to wait to be seated until an appropriate pause between pieces. See, 'What time should I arrive' above :)
When should I clap?
Generally, it is considered proper concert etiquette to clap only after a piece is complete, and not after movements (sections in one piece). You can look at your program-guide booklet to find out how many movements a piece has. If all else fails, go with the flow!
What if I don't know the music being performed?
It doesn't matter (much)! One of the great joys of going to a Roanoke Symphony concert is being introduced to a great piece of music you've never heard before, or listening to a superb performance of a piece you have known for years. Many audience members find that attending a live concert enhances their enjoyment of a piece they already know. For detailed information about each piece on this season's Masterworks concerts, read our program notes.
Before each Masterworks performance the RSO offers a pre-concert event entitled Illuminations. These informal gatherings with music director David Wiley are a great opportunity to gain useful insight into performance (they really are!). Sometimes these presentations provide an opportunity to meet guest soloists and ask questions about their work. For more information on Illuminations, glance over at the right-column on any Masterworks concert page. Take a look at the Masterworks Series listing, then click 'More Info' on any program you like.
May I bring my phone or pager?
All electronic and mechanical devices, including pagers, cell phones and watch alarms, should be turned off before entering the concert hall. If you need to be reached in an emergency, please advise an usher and you will be located. Beeping cell phones and pagers can spoil a concert. If at all possible, please leave these things at home.
What about casual conversations and sharing comments during the concert?
It is customary not to talk while the music is playing. Being sensitive to your neighbors allows everyone to have a more pleasant concert experience. Picnic @ the Pops concerts are a possible exception!
May I take pictures during the performance?
Sorry, the taking of photographs or the recording of Roanoke Symphony Orchestra concerts is prohibited. Keep in mind: some venues will not allow you to enter if you have a camera or recording device with you.
Questions? Click to let us know if you have a question about going to a Roanoke Symphony concert!
