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FAQs

What should I wear?

We prioritize your comfort and encourage you to wear what makes you feel your best when attending a WSO concert. There is no specific dress code, but many patrons treat the experience as a special occasion and opt for business casual or semi-formal attire. Formal wear, such as gowns and tuxedos, is typically reserved for galas and other formal events.

When should I arrive?

The Box Office and concert hall lobby are open one hour before the performance. To get settled and fully enjoy your evening, we recommend arriving 30-45 minutes prior to the start of the concert.

Keep in mind that as the Centennial Concert Hall is located near several other theatres, venues, and Exchange District hotspots, you may want to give yourself extra time to find parking. For information on parking and directions, [click here.]

What are pre-concert chats and where are they located?

Pre-concert chats are a great way to learn a bit more about the music, the performers, and what you can expect to hear. Pre-concert chats are available before most Classics performances and are typically hosted by the performance’s conductor and guest artists, such as soloists or composers. This season, preconcert chats are located inside the hall and take place 45 minutes before concert start time.

How do I get my tickets?

Ticket delivery method is selected at time of purchase. E-tickets are our preferred method and are currently sent by email 5-7 days before your concert. E-tickets can be printed or scanned at entry from your smartphone. You can also opt to have your tickets held at the box office for pick up prior to the performance (box office opens one hour before), or if booked enough in advance, tickets can be mailed to you. Please note that your tickets can always be reissued by the box office.

What if I arrive late?

All latecomers will be asked by the ushers to wait in the lobby until late seating break, at which time you may be seated in temporary seats near the entrance. You will be able to move to your ticketed seat after intermission. You may also watch and listen to the concert on monitors throughout the lobby until we are able to seat you inside the hall.

Are there refreshments available?

Bars and concessions are located throughout the lobby and Piano Nobile. Spirits, wine, beers, liqueurs, soft drinks, coffee, tea, cappuccino, assorted juices, ice cream, and small snacks are available for purchase at most performances.

You may bring your beverage in the theatre, simply request a disposable cup and lid from the attendant. Plastic bottle beverages are allowed as well. Centennial Concert Hall does not permit glass or food inside the theatre.

How do I find my seats?

Your ticket will specify a portal number. As you enter the lobby of the hall, even number portals will be your left, odd number portals on your right. Your row and seat will be through the designated portal. Ushers are located throughout the hall and are happy to answer any questions you might have.

Where is the best place to sit?

It’s helpful to think of the view of the orchestra you’d like to have- some patrons prefer to sit on the left hand side of the hall to have a better view of the soloist, others like a balcony view of the entire ensemble.

It’s also important to note that depending on where you sit in the hall, you may experience the sound of the orchestra a little differently. If you sit on the right side, you may hear a bit more of the brass, or if you sit on the left, more of the violins. That being said, there really are great seats at every price point, and our experienced patron service representatives are happy to help you choose the perfect spot.

How long is a concert? Is there an intermission?

A typical concert is 1.5-2 hours in length and includes a 20-minute intermission. There are usually a few different works on the program, with a short pause taking place in between each piece for setup changes and/or introductions.

When do I clap?

Spontaneous clapping used to be a big part of live classical music performances– it wasn’t uncommon for audiences to applaud a soloist for hitting a high note or to burst out in cheers after a favorite movement, prompting conductors to often repeat the music before moving on.

Customs have since changed to fully recognize the role that silence plays in music. Composers such as Mahler, Mendelssohn, and Schumann believed their works were best appreciated without any additional sonic interruptions and often blurred one movement into the next to ensure no sporadic clapping ensued and distracted from the soundscape they created.

While we certainly don’t want anyone to feel ashamed of expressing their appreciation, the best advice is to follow the lead of the people around you. Don’t be afraid to take in those moments of silence, as they are often just as important as the music itself.

When can I use my phone / what is your mobile device policy?

One of the best parts of attending a WSO concert is the transformative experience of being fully immersed in the moment. Our performances are an opportunity to unplug, refresh, and take full advantage of the revitalizing power of music.

However, we do understand that you might need to check for a text from the babysitter or look up something about the composer. We just ask you please be courteous to everyone around you by keeping your sound completely off and your brightness at the lowest setting.

Can I take photos?

Photos/videos may be taken at any point in the lobby areas of the concert hall.

Once you are in your seats, photos may only be taken before/after the performance, or at intermission. We love to see and share photos of your night at the symphony – be sure to tag us! @wpgsymphony

Audio and video recordings of the concert of any length are not permitted.

Is there any other concert etiquette I should be aware of?

The basic etiquette of attending a symphony concert is much like attending a movie. Please refrain from talking/whispering while the music is playing, and be mindful of the noise that is made when unwrapping lozenges or sorting through your personal belongings. This helps ensure a pleasant environment not just for everyone in attendance, but for the musicians on stage as well (believe it or not, they can see and hear you!)

Share the air, go scent-free. All WSO concerts are scent-free. We ask that you please be considerate of those in the audience who may have allergies and/or multiple chemical sensitivities and refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, or other scented products.

Can I bring my children to the symphony?

Kids Concerts are a great way to introduce children to the symphony while ensuring a memorable experience that really is fun for the whole family. Pre-concert activities are available an hour ahead of the concert, so make sure to arrive early!

For other concerts, children’s pricing is available for ages 3-12 years of age. Babes in arms (children 2 years and younger) are welcome to attend Kid’s Concerts but are not allowed at Classics, Pops, or Movies performances.

Special ticket prices are available for ages 13-17 through our Junior Soundcheck program (or if you’re a little bit older, check out Soundcheck for attendees ages 18-39).

Is wheelchair accessible seating available?

Wheelchair accessible seating is available at the Centennial Concert Hall. Please let a Patron Services Representative know of any special needs when initially booking your tickets. You may also inquire about accessible parking availability when you purchase your tickets. For detailed information on accessibility at the concert hall, please view our Accessibility (link) section.