Symphony 101 / FAQ

There are many different reasons for attending a Symphony concert.  For some it's a chance to dress up and spend a night out.  For others it is a chance to get caught up in the music and escape to another place.  No matter why you attend, you will experience a world-class orchestra performing for you live and in the moment!

Below you will find a number of resources to enhance your Symphony experience, whether you are a first time attendee or long time subscriber.  Please use this information to help you plan your visit with us.  If you have any questions, please contact us at info@stlsymphony.org.

Q. When should I arrive?

A. We recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance.  This will allow you time to find parking and to find your seat in the hall.  Once the concert begins, patrons can not be seated in the hall until the conclusion of the first work on the program. Please refer to the Late Seating Policy below for more details.

Q. When do I clap?

A. It is customary that the audience clap only at the completion of the entire symphony.  This allows the orchestra and conductor to maintain a certain concentration between movements, as well as helping the audience maintain a level of attention without interruption.  If you're not sure, just wait until the rest of the audience begins clapping to be safe!

Q. What do I wear?

A. You will see a wide variety of clothing at Powell Hall, including suits, khakis, jeans and skirts.  Generally, business casual is a good way to go.

Q. Can I bring my children?

A. Age for admission to STL Symphony and Live at Powell Hall concerts varies, however, for most events the recommended age is five or older. All patrons, regardless of age, must have their own tickets and be seated for all concerts. All children must be seated with an adult. Admission to concerts is at the discretion of the house manager.

Q. Where do I park?

A. Grand Center operates several parking lots in the vicinity of Powell Hall.  Click for a map and more information.

Q. How long are the performances?

A.  Most performances are about 2 hours and include a 20 minute intermission.

General Information:

Cameras and tape recorders are not allowed in Powell Hall.  Pagers and cellular phones must be turned off before entering the concert hall.  Food and drinks may be enjoyed in the lobby but are not permitted in the concert hall.  Smoking is not permitted in Powell Symphony Hall.  Halls Cough Drops are provided free of charge by the Warner-Lambert Company in an effort to reduce distracting noises.  Please see an usher for free cough drops.  Patrons who arrive late will be seated at the first convenient pause in the program.  No late seating is guaranteed for programs without intermission.

Late Seating Policy

St. Louis Symphony concerts begin promptly on time.  To ensure the listening pleasure of the audience in the hall, latecomers can not be seated until after the conclusion of the first work on the program. Patrons who leave the hall before or during a work can not be reseated until after the conclusion of the work.

Have any additional questions that are not answered above?  Feel free to send an email to our Symphony Info Hotline for more information.  We can't promise to have the answers to all of your questions, but we will do our best to try!   Email: info@stlsymphony.org

Classical Music websites:
New Music Box
Classical Music Links from KFUO Classic 99
ArtsJournal.com
The Rest is Noise
Adaptistration

For Kids (and Adults):
playmusic.org

Classical Music Discussion:
"The Dress Circle" Message Board at stltoday.com