Frequently
asked questions

While the musicians in the orchestra will be in tuxedos and gowns, formal attire is not required for audience members. Most concertgoers will wear business or cocktail attire.

Doors to the theatre open 30 minutes prior to concert time. Patrons who arrive after the concert has started will be assisted by ushers to find an appropriate time to enter the theatre, usually during a pause in the program.

Of course! Students receive free admission to LSO thanks to generous annual donors. Each concert description includes an estimated length so you can prepare young listeners on what to expect.

Silence in the theatre keeps the distractions for the musicians and fellow audience members to a minimum. Because the theatre is built to carry sound all the way to the balcony, the same principles that allow the audience to hear soft solos played on stage also allow whispers, phone vibrations, watch beeps, candy wrappers and more to be heard… everywhere!

Unfortunately, no. Not only can the glare from the screen distract musicians and other patrons, the music that the orchestra plays is licensed specifically for the audience in the theatre.

Many of the LSO’s talented musicians also teach lessons. Please call the office for assistance connecting with instructors.

It is traditional to welcome the Concertmaster, or first chair violin, with applause. They will walk out before the conductor to tune the orchestra. When the conductor and any guest artists arrive on stage, it is also appropriate to clap.
After a guest artist or soloist has performed, he or she will walk back on stage for a second time during applause to bow again and recognize the orchestra. The audience may give a standing ovation at this time if the performance was truly outstanding. It is supportive to keep clapping until the soloist and conductor have made their final exit.
Reading the program can help to identify when to clap. Typically, applause is held until the end of the final movement of the piece, typically signaled by the conductor by lowering his baton.

Here is a sample program with notes:
Energetic Opening Piece | Well Known Composer
(applause)
Violin Concerto with Guest Artist | Well Known Composer
1. First Movement
(pause – no applause)
2. Second Movement
(pause – no applause)
3. Third Movement
(applause )
Intermission
Symphony No. 1 | Classical Master
1. Adagio/Allegro
(pause – no applause)
2. Andante
(pause – no applause)
3. Scherzo
(pause – no applause)
4. Presto
(applause)

Of course! Students receive free admission to LSO thanks to generous annual donors. Each concert description includes an estimated length so you can prepare young listeners on what to expect.