Your Symphony Experience
If you're reading this, then there's a chance you've never joined the Spartanburg Philharmonic for a concert before. Perhaps you haven't yet had the opportunity to hear a professional orchestra at all. Not sure about attending a concert because you don't know anything about classical music? Well, this is the perfect guide for you. Keep reading and you'll be ready for a stress-free visit to the Spartanburg Philharmonic in no time.
I don't know much about classical music, will I still enjoy the concert?
Absolutely! You may not be familiar with all the music you'll hear, but we'll bet you will recognize something that you just don't know the name of. The Spartanburg Philharmonic enjoys discovering new music with our audience, so sometimes we're playing pieces that we've never performed before. That's one of the coolest things about an orchestra concert - the shared experience of hearing the music performed right in front of you and getting swept away by it. Focus on what you are hearing and you'll find your own meaning and connection to the music.
Still not sure? For our Zimmerli Series concerts, we recommend checking out Classical Conversations, our pre-concert chat hosted by Chris Vaneman. Each episode is released the Thursday before a Zimmerli concert and will give you insight into the pieces on the upcoming program. Our Program Notes are also a great way to familiarize yourself with the pieces and composers that wrote them.
For all of our Zimmerli, Espresso, and Bluegrass concerts, you can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram for informative posts about all our programs.
Do I Need To Dress Up For A Concert?
Don't worry, you don't need a tux or formal dress. Many of our patrons still treat attending the Spartanburg Philharmonic as a special night out so may choose to wear a cocktail dress or suit, with more opting for a business casual or their Sunday-best style. While we love a good opportunity to dress up, it's absolutely not required. If you're feeling fancy, go for it, but if jeans are more your style you'll be welcomed just the same. The Spartanburg Philharmonic experience is all about the music - and we want you to be comfortable so that you can enjoy it fully.
I'm never sure when I should clap, when's the best time?
Most people in the audience will wait until a break in the music to applaud, like if there's a pause between movements or after a piece is over. However, your applause also shows our musicians that you appreciate their work and are into the music. So, if you're feeling wowed at a particular moment, don't be afraid to show it. If you're still feeling self-conscious, follow the lead of the people around you. Our season ticket holders are seated throughout the concert hall and are experienced in classical music, so know exactly when to clap.
Will I get the side-eye if I whistle or cheer?
If we're doing our job well, you'll hear a few "Bravos!" and the like shouted among the applause. You may also hear a few gasps or "Oh's" in the middle of a piece. Maybe even a muffled sniffle or two during especially emotional sections. Music gives us all the feels, especially live music. If you're feeling especially moved, don't be afraid to express it - our musicians thrive on getting that kind of response from the audience. It fuels their performance. If you can, though, save the whistles and cheers for after the piece is over so the people around you can continue to hear and enjoy the music. Feel free to gasp, sigh, and even murmur in delight whenever you'd like.
When should I get there and how long is the concert?
Zimmerli Series concerts start at 7:00 PM, and we're known for being very prompt. If it's your first time with us, we recommend arriving at least 20 minutes early so you'll have time to visit the restroom on the ground floor, then find your seats. If you arrive after the music begins, ushers will ask you to wait outside the auditorium until the piece ends. We also invite you to join us beginning at 6:00 PM for a reception in Wilson Hall, just next door to the Zimmerli Performance center. You'll have the opportunity to chat with fellow concertgoers, mingle with members of the Spartanburg Philharmonic Board of Directors, and maybe even meet the evening's guest conductor, all while enjoying a complimentary beverage. Concert times vary somewhat but generally last an hour and a half with a 20-minute intermission. The approximate run time for each program is available on the Full Program tab on each concert listing on our website.
Espresso Series concerts begin promptly at 6:30 and are always an hour long, regardless of the program. That's what we mean by a short shot of music. All Espresso series concerts also include a pre-concert social hour beginning at 5:30 PM. So, join us early for complimentary beverages, including wine and beer, light appetizers, and conversation with fellow concertgoers and music enthusiasts. Seating is General Admission, so you can easily sit with friends or the new friends you've just met anywhere in the auditorium.
Bluegrass Spartanburg concerts start at 8:00 PM and include pre-concert entertainment in the lobby beginning at 6:45 PM. Wine, beer, and snacks are available for purchase. All seats for the Bluegrass series are pre-reserved, so we recommend arriving at least 20 minutes early to locate your seats, and ushers will be available to assist you. While Bluegrass concerts are typically a 90-minute set plus a 20-minute intermission, the bands that visit us are known for getting into the spirit and playing a little extra. Feel free to stay until the end or leave when you're ready to call it a night.
The best advice we can give you is to relax and have fun. Sit back, let the music wash over you, and don't be afraid of that sizzling energy you feel. That's just part of the magic of live music we all feel—even the musicians on stage.
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