Q: What should I wear?
A: Although it is customary to dress up for an orchestra concert, you may wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. However, keep in mind that the performers worked very hard to bring you such a beautiful evening of music, so why not use this occasion to glam it up and step out in something a bit fancier than everyday clothing?
Q: When can I clap?
A: It is customary to clap when the concertmaster enters, when the conductor enters, when a soloist enters, and after each piece. Most pieces consist of three to four smaller parts called movements. Some say it is not proper to clap between movements, but our conductor Elizabeth Schulze encourages it, so clap away if the spirit moves you to encourage or congratulate the musicians.
Q: Why does the conductor shake the hand of the violinist before the concert begins?
A: The conductor is acknowledging the concertmaster, who is the leader of the violins and a vital part of the orchestra leadership.
Q: Why do parts of the orchestra leave sometimes?
A: Some pieces aren't written for the entire orchestra, so those musicians who aren't needed leave to take a break and prepare for their next piece.
Q: When can I come and go?
A: To show respect to the orchestra, come and go only in between pieces, not movements. Enter and exit as quietly as possible. Hint: Wait for the clapping.