Know Before You Go
Attend a show like a pro by checking out everything you’ll need to know to attend your first performance!
Accessibility
We offer special accommodation for our patrons with disabilities and mobility challenges. For more information on accessibility.
Arrival Times
Lobby doors open 30 minutes prior to the start time of each concert. If a concert features a pre-concert talk, the doors open 15 minutes prior to the start of the talk, and there will be a 15-minute break after the talk before the start of the concert. You are allowed to enter the hall anytime during the talk; we ask that you please move as quietly as possible to your seat.
Digital Devices/Phone Etiquette
A concert is a great place to unplug and focus on the music. We request that you silence your phone and dim the screen during the concert. This provides the best performing environment for our musicians and the best listening environment for our audience. No photography or recording is allowed during the concert.
Families
We love welcoming families at events! For the three Masterworks concerts and the Mother’s Day Season Finale, audience members should be able to sit quietly, usually for about an hour at a time. For children of all ages and for the young-at-heart, we suggest the Family Concert (February), which offers an exciting introduction to live orchestral music, the Messiah Sing-along (December) and the free outdoor Symphony & Art in the Park concert (September). For all concerts except Symphony & Art in the Park, patrons must be ticketed, regardless of age.
Food and Drink at Concert Venues
Placer High School Theater: A variety of pre-packaged savory snacks and sweets and bottled water will be available for purchase in the lobby. We accept cash or credit card payments. Food is not allowed in the theater, so we ask that you enjoy your snacks outside of the hall before returning to your seat.
Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts
Cooper Amphitheater, School Park Preserve
Late Seating
If you arrive after the start of a concert, the ushers will assist you with an appropriate time to take your seat. Please move as quietly as possible when entering the hall.
Messiah Sing-along
Learn about the Messiah Sing-along concert.
Parking & Directions
Pre-Concert Maestro Talks
We invite you to join us for a free 30-minute pre-concert talk with the Maestro at Masterworks II & III. These talks are informative, casual, and fun, helping you learn more about the concert repertoire and possibly a visit from the Guest Artist.
The talk begins 45 minutes prior the concert: 5:15 pm – Saturday concerts, 2:15 pm – Sunday concerts.
Symphony & Art in the Park Concert
Read more info on the FREE Symphony & Art in the Park Concert.
Tickets
I have a question about the ticket I’ve purchased.
More Questions?
What should I wear?
We don’t have a dress code: we welcome everyone as they are. You will see a wide range of attire among our audience: dressy, casual, and creative. Please make yourself comfortable and enjoy the Symphony.
When should I clap?
Applause typically occurs to welcome the concertmaster (the lead violinist who leads the orchestra in its tuning prior to the start of the concert) and then the conductor onstage, and when an entire piece is finished. Some pieces have multiple movements or sections and it’s traditional not to clap between them, although sometimes people do. If a performance moves you to applaud, do so! When in doubt, just wait a moment to see if other members of the audience are applauding, and then join in.
How long is a concert?
Masterworks and the Mother’s Day Season Finale concert are typically about 2 hours and usually feature 3 pieces. There is an intermission, and it usually occurs after the first two pieces have been performed. The Family Concert is shorter and does not have an intermission.
How can I learn about the music being performed?
Learn more in the Program Notes for each concert on the concert page when they are available.
Who are the musicians in the Auburn Symphony?
Learn about the Musicians in the orchestra.