FIRST TIME TO THE SYMPHONY:
AGUIDEFOR AGUIDEFOR YYOUNGAUDIENCES OUNGAUDIENCES
Get ready to explore the world of classical music, where every note tells a story, and YOU are part of the action!
Turn the page: What is a symphony?
WHAT
IS A SYMPHONY?
A symphony is a large group of musicians playing different instruments together to create beautiful music. At La Jolla Symphony & Chorus, we perform pieces by famous composers from around the world, as well as exciting new works. The music can make you feel all sorts of emotions, from joy to wonder to excitement!
Turn the page: Meet the Instruments
MEET THE INSTRUMENTS
A symphony orchestra is made up of four main sections, each with its own group of instruments that work together to create the full sound:
STRINGS:
These include instruments like the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. Musicians play these instruments by drawing a bow across the strings or plucking them with their fingers. The string section often plays the melodies or soft, beautiful harmonies.
WOODWINDS:
Instruments like the flute, clarinet, oboe, and bassoon belong to this group. Woodwind players blow air into their instruments to create sound, and you’ll hear a range of light, airy tones that add color to the music.
BRASS:
Trumpets, trombones, French horns, and tubas make up the brass section. These instruments are known for their bold, loud sounds that bring power and excitement to the music.
PERCUSSION:
Percussion instruments like the drums, cymbals, and timpani add rhythm and energy to the orchestra. The percussion section can also include instruments like the xylophone and tambourine for fun, unique sounds.
MEET THE SINGERS
In addition to the musicians, the La Jolla Symphony often performs with a chorus—a large group of singers! The chorus is made up of four different voice types:
SOPRANOS:
The highest female voices, often singing the melody.
ALTOS:
Lower female voices that add harmony and depth.
TENORS:
The higher male voices that often sing exciting, bright parts.
BASSES:
The lowest male voices, providing a deep, resonant foundation.
Together, the chorus and orchestra create music that is full of emotion and power.
Turn the page: What to Expect at Your First Concert
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST CONCERT
At your first symphony concert, you’ll sit in a large concert hall with your family and other audience members. The musicians and singers will be on stage, and the conductor (the person who leads the orchestra) will stand in front to guide everyone.
Here’s what to expect:
LISTENING TO THE MUSIC:
Symphony music tells stories without words, so you can imagine whatever you like while you listen. Some pieces are fast and exciting, while others are slow and peaceful. There may be times when the music gets very loud or very soft, so pay attention to how it makes you feel!
WHEN TO CLAP:
After each piece of music ends, the audience claps to show appreciation for the musicians. If you’re unsure when to clap, just follow what others around you do—it’s all part of the fun!
ENJOYING THE EXPERIENCE:
It’s okay if you don’t understand everything right away! Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of the instruments and voices working together to create beautiful music.
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE SYMPHONY
Did you know that a violin has four strings? It’s the smallest string instrument but can play very high notes!
The trumpet is one of the loudest instruments in the orchestra and is often used to play fanfares.
Symphony orchestras can have over 80 musicians on stage at once, all playing different parts of the music.
Turn the page: Ready to Join Us?
READY TO JOIN US?
We can’t wait to welcome you to your first symphony concert!
Whether you’re excited about hearing the instruments or watching the singers perform, it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.
Be sure to check out our upcoming concerts and bring your curiosity and imagination for a wonderful time.