Concert FAQ
Music Shed | Photo: Bob Handelmann
Below are answers to a few questions we have been asked by our patrons. If there are others, let us know. We’ll be happy to include them.
What is chamber music?
Chamber music is played and sung with and among friends in intimate settings. Ensembles typically vary in size, feature one performer on each part, and perform without a conductor. The repertoire is the largest and most diverse in the classical music genre.
What should I wear?
Your experience of the music is what’s most important, so wear whatever makes you comfortable. We’re serious about our music, but we’re still pretty informal. Jeans and button up? Coat and tie? You pick!
Are there any customs I should know?
No. No special knowledge of music or experience is needed. We just ask all of our patrons to respect one another’s concertgoing experience. Talking over the music, audibly tapping your feet, rustling the program book pages, and other distracting noises are discouraged.
When should I applaud?
This is a question that concerns a lot of people. Holding one’s applause until the end of a complete work is a custom that evolved in concert halls during the early 20th century. Before then, spontaneous applause was one way a composer could what the audience thought if the music.
Most chamber music works have several movements. If audience members respond to a movement with applause, go ahead and join in. The most usual course is to wait until the performers stand and face the audience, signaling the end of a performance.
When should I arrive?
It’s a good idea to arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of a concert. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to park, peruse the concert program, and prepare yourself for the experience. The Music Shed auditorium opens at 7:30 PM for 8 PM concerts. The Box Office and Will Call in the Music Shed lobby opens at 7 PM on concert nights.
A big part of the Norfolk concert experience is the social side. Before the concert come enjoy the grounds, have a picnic, and meet some friends. Our grounds are open all day and you’re more than welcome to come early and enjoy the idyllic setting.
What if I’m late?
Late seating will take place during the first appropriate pause in the program and at the discretion of management.
Do you sell concessions?
The concessions booth, located on the patio beside the Music Shed, opens at 6:45 PM prior to each Friday and Saturday night concert and remains open through intermission. The booth sells assorted baked goods, ice cream, coffee, Harney and Sons teas, as well as sparkling and still water. Only water is allowed in the Music Shed auditorium.
Can I bring a picnic?
The Festival grounds on the Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate are open to the public on concert days and are perfect for a pre-concert picnic or a leisurely stroll. Bring a blanket and settle into a shady corner or use one of the many picnic tables on the grounds.
Is the Music Shed accessible?
The Music Shed is accessible. Seating is available in all ground floor sections. Several parking spaces are available near the front door. We regret that ushers may not physically assist patrons wishing to transfer into theater seats. Service animals are welcome at the Music Shed.
Where can I park?
Parking is conveniently located on the lawn adjoining the Music Shed. An easily accessible patron drop-off area is located at the front of the concert hall. Ample accessible parking is available.
Are children welcome?
Yes! We welcome children at the concerts provided they are not disruptive to other concertgoers. Encouraging the next generation of chamber music listeners us very important which is why kids under 19 are admitted without charge to all Norfolk concerts.
As a start, we encourage you to bring your children to our Emerging Artist Series concerts, which feature performances by Norfolk Fellows — many of whom appear alongside Festival Arists on Friday and Saturday nights. The less formal atmosphere of these concerts is a perfect introdution.
May I use a cell phone during a concert?
The use of all recording devices, including cameras, cell phones, and tablets is prohibited in the Music Shed.