WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF SALT LAKE CITY

Whether you’re a longtime subscriber or brand new to the Chamber Music Society, we’re glad you’re here.

If you’re visiting this page, we hope that means you’re getting ready to attend one of our concerts, and we love that.

We care a LOT about growing our audience and seeing more people experience our concerts. Our #1 priority is making sure all of our guests (especially 1st-time attendees) have an amazing experience so you ultimately come back again.

That's why we've put together this Newcomer’s Guide—to answer all your burning questions and share insider tips on how to make the most of your evening with us.

Have a question that’s not answered here? Get in touch with us by emailing cms@cmsofslc.org.

 

Not Sure What To Expect?

We’ve Got You Covered.

Classical music is great for stress relief, and going to a concert shouldn’t stress you out. From helping you decide what to wear to suggesting where to eat, the info below will help make your Chamber Music Society outing carefree. 

  • Chamber music is a form of classical music composed for a small group of instruments (traditionally a group that could fit in a palace “chamber”). It is intensely intimate, often described as a “conversation” among the instruments. The majority of chamber music ensembles do not use a conductor.

  • Expect a relaxed and intimate setting where you can appreciate the synergy and intricacies among the musicians. Concerts typically last about two hours, including an intermission.

  • There is no dress code at our concerts. Business casual is the norm but this is Salt Lake City so you will see a variety of attire, from blue jeans to high heels and pearls. Some people love dressing up and going out—if that’s you, do it and you won’t be the only one, we promise. If you prefer to be more casual, then you probably won’t be the only one dressed casually, either. More than anything, we want you to be comfortable when you join us for a concert, so dress in a way that works for you.

  • Experiencing live music allows you to connect with the performers and the music in a way that recorded music simply cannot match. The sound quality, the atmosphere of the venue, and being part of an audience all contribute to a unique and memorable experience.

  • Join us for Pre-Concert Talks in the Weight/Hales Choral Rehearsal Room at 6:30 p.m. prior to each concert for some enlightening information abot the music you’re about to hear!

  • The best seat is largely a matter of personal preference. Some listeners prefer being close to the stage to see the musicians' expressions and techniques, while others enjoy the sound balance from further back. Libby Gardner Hall has excellent acoustics, so you'll have a great experience from any seat. Don’t be afraid to sit in the first few rows if you want to see and hear the musicians up close!

  • The truth is, our musicians always appreciate your applause (even between movements). We encourage you to clap when you feel moved or inspired by what you hear! However, the norm for our audience is to generally hold your applause until after the final movement.

  • Unless otherwise published on the website, most of our concerts start at 7:30 p.m. and some of our concerts also have a free, 45-minute pre-concert talk, starting one hour before each concert. We recommend allowing plenty of time to park and get to your seat. If you’re late, an usher may ask you to wait between movements (a few minutes) before entering the hall.

  • A subscription is a package deal where you can purchase tickets for multiple concerts at a highly discounted rate compared to buying individual tickets for each concert. In addition to securing the best prices we offer, subscriptions also more directly support our Society and the artists we present.