Welcome to the Georgia Symphony Orchestra (CSO)

The CSO offers concertgoers a unique opportunity to experience the power and passion of live music in a world-renowned setting. The following information will enhance your visit and help to ensure that all patrons enjoy the concert experience to the fullest.

Most of the information below pertains to classical music performances. Some performances may have additional or different guidelines. For Georgia Symphony and Cobb Pops concerts, the program book contains additional information. For outside events (non-CSO, non-Pops), please contact the concert promoter for more information.

Arrival

CSO evening concerts at CSO begin at 8:00 p.m.; doors open 90 minutes prior to concert time. Afternoon concerts begin at 3 p.m.; doors open at 1:30 p.m. for the concert. Outside performances (non-CSO, non-Pops) begin at various times. Doors generally open one hour prior to concert time; however, please check with the concert promoter for specific times. Patrons should arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance to allow ample time to use the Hall's facilities, find seats, and settle in for the performance.

Attire

While there is no dress code for Georgia Symphony and Cobb Pops performances, patrons generally wear semi-formal or business attire. Formal attire is requested on certain occasions, including Opening Night at Symphony and Opening Night at Pops.

Late Seating

Late seating will take place during the first convenient pause in the program

During the Performance

Once a concert is underway, we request that you don't talk, whisper, sing, hum, or move personal belongings. This will ensure that you, other patrons, and the performers enjoy the full benefits of the performance. Patrons should also refrain from entering and exiting the hall while a performance is in progress. Ushers are stationed at entrances and exits. If you must leave your seat, please proceed quickly and quietly to the nearest door or ask the nearest usher for assistance.

Electronic Devices

Cellular phones, beepers, watches, electronic organizers, and other noise-alarm devices should be switched to silent mode.

Applause

Please applaud only at the close of a full piece of music. The program page, which lists individual movements of longer compositions, and the program notes can help you follow the orchestra's progress through each piece and determine the appropriate moments to applaud.

Program Notes

For information on a particular concert, please see the program notes found in the program book and on the CSO website, where you can also find podcasts offering brief concert previews. The notes provide background on the composers, the composition process, the story behind the music, and previous performances, and highlight significant passages or instruments.

Note: Program notes are not always provided for outside events at CSO. For more information about program notes for such events, please contact the concert promoter. During Intermission

During intermission

patrons may use the hall's facilities, or enjoy beverages in the Grand Lobby of the Murray Arts Center. No food or beverage is allowed inside the auditorium of the hall during Georgia Symphony concerts.

Cameras/Recording Equipment

Camera and recording equipment are prohibited in CSO during concerts

Children at CSO

Children five years and older may attend Georgia Symphony and Cobb Pops concerts. Youth and Family Concerts are intended for students in kindergarten through grade 12. Children of any age may attend Holiday Pops matinee performances.