I would personally feel more comfortable at a symphony orchestra concert because of the firm rules that are put into place. The symphony orchestra concert displays a clear sense of sophistication, which is something I find pleasant. Also I enjoy the concept of the audience being separated from the performers because I see that as a sign of respect and it leaves the focus on the music, which is what everyone is there to enjoy.

At a symphony orchestra concert, the concert doesn’t begin until the conductor enters and signals the performers to begin by waving their arm at the performers. A symphony orchestra concert has a “standardized programming” to follow, which is something I enjoy because the concert will be very precise. The format most concerts follow is, “a light introductory piece (often an overture), a concerto, and a symphony” which is right to the point and it doesn’t include any surprises (pg 631). As an audience member you would expect to hear a variety of instruments from the performers like, woodwinds, strings and brass. In addition, aside from following rules like being well dressed and having cell phones turned off, you would also be expected to be quiet throughout the show because everyone is trying to enjoy the concert as well. I’ve been able to attend an orchestra concert at Lincoln Center a few years ago and it was such an amazing experience, the format is very clear-cut and having such a rigorous set of instructions makes the performance feel one of a kind.

I would feel less comfortable in a chamber music recital because the audience is closer to the performers, which can feel a bit too intimate for me. Also most chamber music can consist of only a piano trio, or string quartet and I rather have a variety of more instruments and a greater quantity as well.