Concert Etiquette

The Queensland Symphony Orchestra welcomes audience members of all musical backgrounds and levels of expertise to our concerts. Attending your first concert need not be a daunting experience; we endeavour to ensure that all attendees enjoy our concerts and join us for many more in the future.

So you have an enjoyable experience, we have the following tips for you. Most importantly, remember to relax, have fun and enjoy the performance; you may find yourself on a new and exciting musical journey.

Arrival Time

To ensure you experience all our concerts have to offer, it is best to arrive between 20 and 30 minutes before each performances commences. This will give you enough time to locate the correct door to find your seat, get a glass of wine or soft drink and relax after your day.

If travelling on a Friday night or on nights where other city events are on, we suggest allowing some extra time to get to the destination.

What if you're running late?

Unfortunately, entry to orchestra performances is restricted once a performance has begun. If you arrive late, an usher will assist you to enter the venue during a suitable break in the music, between pieces or after interval. Entering at an inappropriate time can cause disturbance to your fellow audience members or the musicians.

What should I wear?

The QSO audience are a diverse group of people. Our attendees vary their dress from smart casual to formal wear. We ask that you dress appropriately for the event you are attending and tailor your attire to suit the venue where the performance is taking place.

Mobile Phone and other electronic devices

We request that all mobiles and electronic devices be turned off before the concert begins. Interruptions from such devices can disturb both musicians and other patrons. Please also respect others by limiting talking, whispering, unnecessary coughing and paper rustling to ensure the enjoyment of all in attendance and for the performers onstage.

Photography and recording of the performance is also prohibited. From time to time some concerts are recorded and broadcast on ABC at a later date. Check the website for details or contact QSO reception (where available) if you would like to experience the performance again at a later date.

When to applaud

Pieces of music have specific sections, called movements. The musicians will pause after each of these movements. Applause is given at the end of each piece, rather than after a movement. Applause is also given to the soloist of each piece of music.

If you're unsure of when to applaud, please refer to your program for the end of each movement in the piece, or you can take a cue from your fellow audience members. If you're a little daunted by clapping, speak to a concert organiser for some further instruction.

Why does the orchestra Tune? Why does there need to be silence?

Many of the orchestral instruments that the performers play contain natural materials such as strings. Natural materials are sensitive to humidity and temperature, which causes them to lose pitch quickly. Silence is needed so the musicians can hear their instrument and the other members of the orchestra. During this time, the audience should remain as quiet as possible.

Pre-Concert Talks

QSO often provides pre-concert talks before each performance. The talks are performed by members of the orchestra, such as the assistant conductor. In the talk, we try to provide some background to the program and information on composers, soloist and guest artists.

The talks vary in length and size. Unfortunately seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. If you would like to attend please arrive approximately 40-45 min prior to a concert and seek direction from an usher or concert organiser.