First time at the symphony
Welcome! Here’s what to expect
Never been to an orchestra concert? This friendly guide covers what to wear, when to clap and how to make the most of your evening.
- From the Symphony Confirmed on alpharettasymphony.org
- General tip Common practice at most orchestra concerts
- Needs confirmation Check with the Symphony before relying on it
What to wear
Come as you are.
No dress code
From the SymphonyThe Symphony encourages you to wear what makes you feel comfortable and festive. You’ll see everything from jeans to cocktail dresses.
Bring a layer
General tipAuditoriums can run warm or cool, so a light sweater or jacket is handy.
When to applaud
The question every first-timer asks, and there’s no wrong answer.
Welcome the musicians
General tipApplaud when the concertmaster comes on stage to tune the orchestra, when the conductor walks out, and when a soloist enters.
Wait for the whole piece
General tipMany works have several movements with short pauses between them. Most audiences hold applause until the whole piece ends. The Digital Program lists each movement so you can follow along.
Watch the conductor
General tipNot sure? Wait until the conductor lowers their arms and turns toward the audience, then join in.
Concert etiquette
Small courtesies that help everyone enjoy the music.
Silence your phone
General tipSwitch it to silent and dim the screen. Even a brief glow is distracting in a dark hall.
Quiet during the music
General tipSave conversation for intermission, and unwrap cough drops before the music starts.
Photos and recordings
Needs confirmationMany orchestras allow photos only before the concert and during applause. The Symphony’s own policy needs confirmation.
Food and drink
Needs confirmationWhether food and drinks are allowed in the auditorium needs confirmation.
Arrival
A relaxed arrival makes for a better evening.
Pre-concert talk
From the SymphonyMost evening concerts begin with a pre-concert talk one hour before the performance. It’s a great introduction to the music.
Give yourself time
General tipAim to arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to park, pick up tickets and find your seat.
Running late?
Needs confirmationLatecomers are usually seated during a pause between pieces. The Symphony’s late-seating policy needs confirmation.
Parking
Most concerts are at Innovation Academy in downtown Alpharetta.
Where to park
From the SymphonyInnovation Academy (125 Milton Ave) is at the corner of Milton Ave. and Teasley St. The entrance and parking are behind the school.
Parking cost
Needs confirmationWhether parking is free needs confirmation.
Accessibility
Everyone is welcome.
Accessible seating
From the SymphonyAll concerts are accessible. Wheelchair access is available with adjacent companion seats.
Ask ahead
From the SymphonyIf you need assistance, email the Symphony before the concert at hello@alpharettasymphony.org.
Hearing assistance and large print
Needs confirmationAvailability of assistive listening devices or large-print programs needs confirmation.
What to expect
A few things that might surprise a first-timer.
Your hometown orchestra
From the SymphonyThe Alpharetta Symphony is a semi-professional orchestra presenting a seven-concert season plus youth programs in North Fulton.
The tuning ritual
General tipJust before the music starts, the oboe plays a single note (an A) and the whole orchestra tunes to it.
How long it lasts
Needs confirmationThe Digital Program shows the approximate length of each piece. Total running time and intermission length need confirmation for each concert.
Bring the family
From the SymphonyMany performances are great for families, and the youth programs are a perfect introduction to orchestral music.
Tickets
From the SymphonyBuy online, by phone, or at the door if seats are still available. Groups of 10 or more can get a discount.