Our Concert Experience

During the Performance

If this is your first time at a classical music performance, welcome! We're excited that you've joined us, and hope you enjoy the experience! We know that, oftentimes, there can be confusion about what to do and when, so here are a few guidelines that we hope you find useful, newcomers and experienced concert attendees alike:

  • First of all, enjoy the concert! Listen to the sounds you're hearing, soak up the melodies and feel the rhythms of the music. Whether you're here for the first time or a seasoned concertgoer, there is something for everyone to appreciate in the performance.

  • We provide extensive program notes in the program book you'll receive at the concert so you can get a little background information on the music you're hearing. However, deep background knowledge of the music certainly isn't a necessity for enjoyment of the concert.

  • You may wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. While many people choose to dress up when attending a concert, there is no "dress code" to which you must adhere (although, OMP staff and musicians - as well as your fellow audience members - do prefer that everyone wear clothes).

  • Please do turn off your cell phones and pagers. The pinging of a cell phone is distracting to both the performers and your fellow audience members. Please also refrain from using your cell phone, as the bright glow of the screen can also be a distraction. Besides, it's nice to unplug every once in a while, and a concert provides the perfect opportunity for doing so.

  • Please be mindful of opening loud candy wrappers and conversations during the performance. While we encourage you to talk about the aspects of the performance you enjoyed with your fellow concertgoers, please do keep in mind that conversations can be distracting to those around you, so the time between pieces and at intermission is likely the best time to chat with your fellow concertgoers.

  • The issue of "when to clap" seems to be one that causes much concern and consternation among concertgoers. Generally, the audience should clap at the ends of pieces rather than at the ends of individual movements; however, you should not be shunned if you clap at the wrong time because you were enthusiastically enjoying the music you were hearing.

  • If you are a more experienced concertgoer and see someone who is new, please be kind and welcoming.