One of the best ways to experience the Cincy Region's art scene is to spend a night with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, a local institution housed at the historic and beautiful Cincinnati Music Hall. New experiences can sometimes be intimidating, so check out this insider's guide, provided by Jensen Fitch, Publicity Manager with the CSO, on how to experience one of the CSO's unforgettable shows. 

A group of musicians are assembled onstage at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.
Photo: Mark Lyons

1) Find Your Soundtrack: Choosing a Concert

There is something for everyone at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. We seek to share inspiration through music, and you don’t need a musical background to enjoy the symphony! The CSO performs a robust variety of music throughout the season, and our new music director, Cristian Măcelaru, ensures quality at every concert by preparing and leading the musicians of the Orchestra. If you’re not sure which concerts to choose from our 25/26 season, check out these suggestions. To find a full list of our concerts this season, check out our full calendar of concerts.

The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's music director, Cristian Măcelaru
Photo: Mark Lyons

2) Secure Your Seat: Buying Tickets

We believe that great music is for everyone, regardless of your budget. We offer a variety of ways to experience the Orchestra, including discounts on tickets for senior citizens, military personnel and students. Below are additional ways you can save on your next visit to Cincinnati Music Hall.

 

Pro tip: If you have never attended a CSO or Pops concert, you and a guest are invited to a CSO or Pops performance for only $10 per ticket (limit 2, subject to availability, valid for select concerts). Call or visit the Box Office (513.381.3300) and mention promo code FIRST-TIMER.

 

HarmonyPass: For a low monthly fee, you can get tickets to nearly every CSO & Pops concert at Music Hall. The membership includes exclusive pre-sale access to performances and discounts on special events.

 

To purchase tickets, you can buy them directly online or through the Box Office. The Box Office can be reached by phone (513.381.3300), email (hello@cincinnatisymphony.org) or in-person at Music Hall 10-5 Monday through Friday and 10-2 on Saturdays.

 

3) Fine Tuning Your Look: Dress Code

If you can’t decide what to wear, we can help! When it comes to attire, we want you to be comfortable so you can enjoy the music. Some people dress up, while others come a little more casual, like sweaters, jeans and khakis. Generally speaking, matinee and family performances are a bit more on the casual side than evening performances.

A group of women laugh and talk while seated at a Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performance.
Photo: Mark Lyons

4) Know Before You Go: Parking and Punctuality

Don't know where to park? Good news: There are over 2,500 parking spots within four blocks of Cincinnati Music Hall! You can park at Washington Park Garage on Elm Street, the Town Center Garage on Central Parkway, or even in the lot directly next to Music Hall. There are also other garages and street parking nearby.

 

To appreciate the entire concert experience at Music Hall, we recommend arriving 45-60 minutes before the start of a concert. That allows you time to park, visit Will Call, explore Washington Park and the historic Cincinnati Music Hall, enjoy a drink and make your way to your seat. Our friendly ushers are poised and ready to help answer your questions, guide your way through Music Hall or help you find your seat.

 

5) Experience the Music: How to Listen

There is no “right” way to enjoy a concert. We know that everyone will experience our music differently. Music is meant to affect you, to spark reactions and feelings, or to lead you to reflect on memories. Feel free to close your eyes and lose yourself in the music, or keep your eyes glued to the stage to capture the talent and passion of the orchestra members, or simply use the time to disconnect and relax. There is something awe-inspiring about experiencing a live performance—it's both communal but also extremely personal.

 

6) Orchestrated Fun: Take a Tour of Music Hall

After you’ve experienced your first concert, if you want to spend even more time at Cincinnati’s Music Hall, You can take a behind-the-scenes tour from the Friends of Music Hall, a volunteer-driven organization that preserves, improves and promotes education surrounding the building. You can learn about the rich history of the National Historic Landmark that was built in 1878. Take a tour of the building to learn how you can ensure its future, and become a friend of Music Hall!

Cincinnati Music Hall on a sunny day
Cincinnati Music Hall, one of the crown jewels in the Queen City (photo: Eric Johnson)

7) Stay Connected: Be the First to Receive Information

For the latest and most up-to-date information, be sure to follow us on social media and join our digital newsletters. You can be the first to know all things CSO! You can sign up quickly here. You can also follow us on our social platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

We hope to see you soon at the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!