Kerri's Guide to the Symphony Part 1 - Selecting the Performance

If attending a symphony performance is something you've been curious about but have no idea where to begin this is the absolute first step. If someone has invited you to a symphony concert, the selection process has already been done for you. All you've got to do is show up. I'll cover more on that in another section.

Now, I use the term "symphony" simply because where I live is home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO). It is what I am most familiar with because I once had the pleasure of working in the box office at the lovely Francis Winspear Centre for Music.

The difference between a symphony orchestra and a philharmonic orchestra is only in name. Our friends in Calgary are home to the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO). I haven't seen them perform but would love to. The architect of the Jack Singer Concert Hall also designed the Winspear.

Consider the reason(s) you are interested in attending the symphony. All reasons are valid. Some people just want a chance to dress up a bit and make a night of it. Others have never been and are curious.

If time isn't particularly relevant, and you've never been to they symphony but kind of want to see what it's all about, I'd strongly suggest checking them out at a festival. Check out the websites for more information. In Edmonton, each year during the Labour Day weekend is the Symphony Under the Sky held in Hawrelak Park. It's a casual, festival atmosphere held outdoors (weather permitting). They have different themes, even the orchestra shows up in jeans. It's great fun, no pressure, a unique opportunity to see what the symphony is all about. Often the conductors and guest conductors are very interactive.

Alternately, most orchestras (I know for certain Calgary and Edmonton do) offer noon-hour concerts on a scheduled basis. It's best to check the websites for which particular dates these are held as they often vary. Sometimes this is done in conjunction with CBC Radio or something. Most times admission is free or very reasonable.

The web has certainly made things far easier for people. The Winspear website has an interactive seating map (click on "Winspear website" for the direct link to it) where you can click on different sections and have some idea what the view would be like. You can also view a printable version which they also make available in person at the box office. I'll cover more on seating selection in the next part.

If you're trying to plan around a special occasion - like an anniversary or birthday, check the online calendars. Sometimes the box office offers packages that can include dinner. Not always. It pays to call and check, though. If not, you may encounter a particularly knowledgeable staff member who could recommend a nearby restaurant. I used to do it all the time for people as well as suggest the best places to park. Sometimes I felt sort of like a downtown concierge but it was all part of the fun and enhanced the experience for everyone.

If you're not especially familiar with classical music, you can check out the selections playing on the night you're interested in and look them up online. Certainly there's a sound clip somewhere. Even try iTunes if you just want to sample it. I'm fairly certain most symphony and philharmonic orchestra websites have sound clips of them playing. Most nights have a theme of some sort that is usually indicated by the title - like "romantics" or "masters." If you're particularly fond of a specific instrument, check out the entire season to see if there's a featured soloist.

This is just a taste of what is to come and what there is to experience. The next part will cover seating selection, buying tickets, proper attire, etiquette, and that sort of thing. It really isn't as daunting as people may think. If there's something you'd like to see, or think I missed, feel free to leave a comment.