“Know Before You Go”

We’re excited to welcome you to a Symphony concert! This list of common concert questions will help you prepare. If you have a question and don’t see it on this page, please contact the Symphony office at (434) 924-3139 or symphony@virginia.edu.

How long do concerts last?

Our masterworks and holiday concerts last about two hours, including one fifteen-minute intermission.

What do I wear?

In short: whatever makes you comfortable.  Many patrons will be in business casual or slightly casual wear; others enjoy the opportunity to dress up.  The orchestra promotes a fragrance-free environment.

How do I get there? Where do I park?

Take a look at our Getting There page for concert locations, maps, directions, parking and public transportation options.

When should I get there?

When attending concerts at Old Cabell Hall, we recommend allowing at least 30 minutes to walk from your car to the concert hall, use the restroom and get comfortable in your seats.  At the Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center, we recommend allowing 20 minutes to enter the venue, find your seats and peruse the program.  At both venues, the doors to the concert hall open 30 minutes prior to the performance start time.

What if I arrive late?

We do allow late entry but will only seat patrons during applause in between pieces.

Can I take pictures/videos?

Cameras and recording devices are distracting for both musicians and other audience members.  As such, audio and video recording and photography are strictly prohibited during all Symphony concerts.  However, patrons are welcome to take photos before the concert, during intermission and after the concert.  If you’re sharing photos on social media, use the hashtag #cvillesymphony so we can find you!

When do I clap?

Patrons usually wait until all movements of a piece are completed before applauding.

Do you have refreshments available?

Unfortunately, refreshments are not available at either Old Cabell Hall or the Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center.  There are water fountains at both venues, and vending machines are available on the first floor of Bryan Hall, located next door to Old Cabell Hall.  Food and beverages are not permitted in either auditorium.

Can I bring my children?

Though the Symphony does not recommend children under the age of 6 attend concerts, no children (except for babies in arms) will be refused entry to any Symphony concert provided they have their own purchased tickets and are seated with an adult.  You know your children better than we do.  If you think your child will enjoy a two-hour concert in a quiet listening environment, we welcome them.

Check out the “Education and Community” tab on our website for a variety of family-friendly events that the orchestra hosts every year.

Do you have accessible seating?

Wheelchair accessible seating is available at Old Cabell Hall and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center.  Arrangement for accessible seating may be made through the UVA Arts Box Office when purchasing tickets.

More information about accessibility, including handicap parking locations, is available here.

What if I lose something?

For Lost and Found, please call the Old Cabell Hall front desk at (434) 924-3052 or the Charlottesville High School main office at (434) 979-9532.