How to Attend San Francisco Symphony Concerts

The San Francisco Symphony is one of the most acclaimed orchestras in the world, renowned for its artistic excellence, innovative programming, and deep connection to the cultural fabric of the Bay Area. Attending a concert is more than just a night out—it’s an immersive experience that blends timeless classical masterpieces with contemporary compositions, all performed in the acoustically pristine Davies Symphony Hall. Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or a first-time attendee, understanding how to navigate the process—from selecting performances to securing tickets and preparing for the evening—ensures a seamless, memorable experience. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to attending San Francisco Symphony concerts, covering everything from ticket acquisition and venue etiquette to maximizing your enjoyment through preparation and resources.

Step-by-Step Guide

Attending a San Francisco Symphony concert involves a series of intentional steps designed to optimize your experience. Follow this structured approach to ensure you’re fully prepared, informed, and confident on the night of the performance.

1. Explore the Season Schedule

The San Francisco Symphony releases its annual season schedule in the spring, typically between March and May, outlining performances for the upcoming concert year. The schedule includes subscription series, pops concerts, family programs, and special events. Begin by visiting the official website at sfsymphony.org to review the full calendar. Use the filters to narrow down by genre—such as classical, film scores, holiday programs, or contemporary works—and by date. Pay attention to the conductor, soloists, and repertoire, as these elements significantly shape the character of each concert.

Many performances feature guest artists of international renown, such as pianists, violinists, or vocalists, whose presence can elevate the program. For example, a concert featuring a performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with a celebrated pianist will draw different audience expectations than a program centered on contemporary American composers. Understanding the thematic arc of each concert helps you select one that aligns with your musical interests.

2. Choose Your Ticket Type

The Symphony offers several ticketing options to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Subscription Packages: Subscribers receive tickets to multiple concerts throughout the season, often at a discounted rate. Subscriptions include benefits like priority seating, exchange privileges, and early access to additional events.
• Single Tickets: Ideal for first-time attendees or those with flexible schedules. Single tickets are available for individual concerts and are typically released after subscription sales conclude.
• Student and Youth Tickets: Discounted tickets are available for students and young adults under 30, often at $10–$25 per ticket. Proof of eligibility may be required at the door.
• Standing Room Tickets: For budget-conscious attendees, standing room tickets are offered for select performances at a significantly reduced price. These are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and are available only on the day of the concert.
• Community and Outreach Tickets: The Symphony partners with local organizations to provide complimentary or deeply discounted tickets to underserved communities. Check their outreach programs for eligibility.

When choosing your ticket type, consider how often you plan to attend. If you anticipate seeing more than three concerts in a season, a subscription is almost always the most cost-effective option. Subscribers also gain access to exclusive pre-concert talks and behind-the-scenes content.

3. Purchase Tickets Through Official Channels

To avoid scams, inflated prices, or invalid tickets, always purchase directly from the San Francisco Symphony’s official website or box office. Third-party resellers may charge premium fees or sell tickets that are non-transferable or void. The official site offers secure, encrypted transactions and instant digital ticket delivery.

After selecting your concert and seat preferences, proceed to checkout. You’ll be asked to create an account or log in if you already have one. This account stores your purchase history, allows you to manage exchanges, and enables you to receive email notifications about upcoming events, presales, and special offers.

Payment methods accepted include major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, and gift certificates. If you’re purchasing as a gift, the Symphony offers e-gift cards that can be applied toward any ticket purchase.

4. Select Your Seating

Davies Symphony Hall is designed with exceptional acoustics and sightlines, but seating sections vary in experience and price. Here’s a breakdown of the main sections:

• Orchestra: The main floor level, offering the most immersive sound and closest views of the stage. Seats in the center (rows D–J) are considered ideal for balanced acoustics.
• Loge: The first balcony, providing a slightly elevated perspective. Excellent for those who prefer a broader view of the ensemble. Seats near the center of the loge offer a clear view of the conductor and soloists.
• Upper Balcony: The highest level, offering the most affordable seating. While the distance is greater, the acoustics remain excellent due to the hall’s design. Look for seats directly above the orchestra center for optimal sound.

Use the interactive seating map on the website to preview your view. The map highlights obstructed views, such as those near pillars or overhangs, and indicates whether a seat is part of a “premium” section with added amenities like wider chairs or closer proximity to the stage.

Pro tip: Avoid seats in the extreme side balconies if you want to see the full ensemble. While these seats are cheaper, the angle can make it difficult to follow the conductor’s gestures or see soloists clearly.

5. Prepare for Your Visit

Once your tickets are confirmed, begin preparing for your visit. This includes planning your transportation, understanding the venue layout, and knowing what to expect on the night of the concert.

Davies Symphony Hall is located at 201 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, adjacent to the War Memorial Performing Arts Center. Public transit is highly recommended due to limited parking and high traffic in the area. The Muni Metro N-Judah and T-Third lines stop nearby, and several bus routes serve the Van Ness corridor. If driving, consider parking at the War Memorial Garage or the nearby Civic Center Garage. Arrive early—doors open 90 minutes before the concert—and allow extra time for security screening and finding your seat.

Do not bring large bags, backpacks, or food into the hall. Coats and small purses are permitted but may be subject to inspection. The venue offers complimentary coat check services.

6. Arrive Early and Engage with Pre-Concert Activities

Arriving at least 45 minutes before the concert begins gives you time to explore the lobby, visit the bar (which serves wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages), and browse the merchandise stand for recordings, programs, and souvenirs.

Many concerts feature free pre-concert talks, usually held 45–60 minutes before the performance in the Davies Hall lobby. These 20–30 minute sessions are led by musicologists, conductors, or guest artists and provide context for the pieces being performed. They’re an excellent way to deepen your appreciation—even if you’re unfamiliar with classical music. Some talks include live demonstrations by musicians, offering insight into instrument technique or compositional structure.

Don’t miss the opportunity to read the program booklet, which is provided free with your ticket. It includes biographies of the performers, historical notes on the repertoire, and translations of vocal texts. Many attendees find that reading the program enhances their emotional connection to the music.

7. Understand Concert Etiquette

Classical concerts follow traditions that enhance the collective experience. While the atmosphere at the San Francisco Symphony is welcoming and inclusive, observing a few simple customs ensures respect for the performers and fellow audience members.

• Arrive on time: Latecomers are seated at appropriate breaks in the music, often during applause between movements. If you arrive after the concert has begun, you may be asked to wait in the lobby until the next suitable pause.
• Turn off all devices: Silence your phone, smartwatch, and any other electronic devices. Even a dim screen can be distracting in a darkened hall.
• Clap at the right moments: Applause is traditionally reserved for the end of a complete piece, not between movements. In some cases, the conductor may indicate a pause between movements, but if you’re unsure, wait until the entire work concludes and the conductor lowers their arms and turns to face the audience.
• Avoid talking or whispering: Even quiet conversation can disrupt the concentration of others. If you need to speak, step into the lobby.
• Respect the space: Refrain from taking photos or recording audio or video during the performance. This is not only a rule but a courtesy to the artists and other attendees.

These customs are not meant to intimidate—they’re designed to preserve the focus and emotional intensity of live orchestral music. Most attendees are understanding of newcomers, and a little preparation goes a long way.

8. Enjoy the Performance

Now that you’ve navigated the logistics, it’s time to simply listen. Allow yourself to be present. Classical music is not about “getting it right”—it’s about experiencing emotion, tension, release, and beauty. Let the music unfold. Notice how the strings swell, how the brass resonates, how the percussion adds texture. If a passage moves you, don’t feel pressured to analyze it. Just feel it.

Many first-time attendees report feeling overwhelmed at first, but with time, the language of orchestral music becomes more intuitive. You’ll begin to recognize themes, anticipate dynamics, and even predict transitions. That’s the magic of live performance: it’s a shared journey between the musicians and the audience.

9. After the Concert

After the final note fades, the audience will often rise for a standing ovation. Stay for a moment to acknowledge the performers’ artistry. If the orchestra returns for an encore—a short additional piece—you’ll know it’s coming when the conductor steps back onto the podium without lowering their baton.

Exit calmly and allow others to clear the aisles. If you enjoyed the concert, consider leaving a review on the Symphony’s website or sharing your experience on social media. Word-of-mouth support is vital to sustaining the arts.

Many attendees choose to extend their evening with a drink or dinner at one of the nearby restaurants in the Civic Center or Hayes Valley neighborhoods. The Symphony often partners with local eateries to offer pre- or post-concert dining packages, which can be booked through their website.

Best Practices

Attending San Francisco Symphony concerts becomes even more rewarding when you adopt a few proven habits that enhance your experience and deepen your connection to the music.

1. Build a Personal Concert Calendar

Keep a digital or printed calendar dedicated to upcoming performances. Mark subscription renewals, single-ticket release dates, and special events like the annual Holiday Pops or Summer Sounds series. Set reminders 1–2 weeks in advance to ensure you don’t miss early-bird sales or presales for subscribers.

2. Subscribe for Newsletters and Alerts

Sign up for the Symphony’s email newsletter to receive updates on new programs, artist announcements, and exclusive offers. Subscribers often get first access to tickets before the public sale. You’ll also receive invitations to member-only events, such as meet-and-greets with musicians or rehearsals.

3. Attend a Rehearsal (When Available)

On select days, the Symphony offers public rehearsals for a nominal fee—often under $20. These are not full dress rehearsals, but they provide a rare glimpse into the creative process. You’ll hear the orchestra work through passages, listen to the conductor’s feedback, and witness the evolution of a performance. It’s an invaluable educational opportunity.

4. Learn the Basics of the Repertoire

While not required, spending 10–15 minutes researching the pieces you’ll hear can dramatically enrich your listening. Use resources like AllMusic, Grove Music Online, or the Symphony’s own program notes to understand the historical context, structure, and emotional intent of the works. For example, knowing that Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony was composed during a period of personal struggle adds depth to the iconic opening motif.

5. Bring a Notebook

Many concertgoers keep a small journal to jot down impressions after each performance. What piece moved you? Which instrument stood out? Did the conductor’s interpretation surprise you? Recording these thoughts helps you track your evolving tastes and creates a personal archive of musical experiences.

6. Explore the Symphony’s Educational Initiatives

The San Francisco Symphony offers a robust suite of educational programs, including youth concerts, school partnerships, and community residencies. Attending a Family Concert—designed for children and their caregivers—is a wonderful way to experience orchestral music in a relaxed, interactive environment. These concerts often include storytelling, visual aids, and audience participation.

7. Support the Arts Beyond the Ticket

Consider becoming a member of the Symphony’s donor circle. Membership tiers offer benefits like complimentary tickets, invitations to private receptions, and recognition in concert programs. Even a modest contribution helps ensure the continued vitality of live orchestral music in the Bay Area.

8. Invite a Friend

Attending with someone new can deepen your own appreciation. Share your excitement, discuss the music afterward, and make it a social ritual. Many first-time attendees report that going with a friend helped them overcome nervousness and enjoy the experience more fully.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical tools can enhance your journey as a concertgoer. Here are the most valuable resources, curated for accessibility and depth.

Official Website: sfsymphony.org

The primary hub for all concert information, ticket purchases, program notes, and artist bios. The site includes an interactive calendar, seating maps, and streaming options for select performances.

San Francisco Symphony App

Available for iOS and Android, the official app allows you to access digital tickets, receive push notifications for schedule changes, view program notes offline, and explore behind-the-scenes videos. It’s the most convenient way to manage your attendance.

Program Notes Archive

Each concert’s program notes are archived on the website and written by professional musicologists. These are scholarly yet accessible, offering historical context, structural analysis, and composer biographies. Download or print them before the concert for a richer listening experience.

Classical Music Streaming Platforms

Before attending a concert, listen to recordings of the pieces being performed. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Idagio offer high-quality recordings by the San Francisco Symphony and other world-class orchestras. Comparing interpretations helps you notice subtle differences in live performance.

Music Theory and Listening Guides

For those interested in understanding structure, consider free online resources such as:

• OpenMusicTheory.com – Interactive lessons on harmony, form, and orchestration.
• YouTube Channels: “1000 Pieces” and “The Art of the Symphony” offer visual breakdowns of orchestral works.
• Books: “The Enjoyment of Music” by Kristine Forney and “How to Listen to Music” by Henry Edward Krehbiel.

Local Transportation Apps

Use Google Maps, Transit, or Moovit to plan your route to Davies Symphony Hall. These apps provide real-time updates on Muni schedules and walking directions from nearby BART stations.

Seat Review Sites

While not official, websites like SeatGeek and RateYourSeats.com feature user-submitted photos and reviews of Davies Hall seats. These can help you avoid obstructed views or overly distant positions.

Local Cultural Guides

Publications like San Francisco Magazine, SF Weekly, and Bay Area Bites often feature previews of upcoming Symphony performances, including interviews with conductors and soloists. These articles provide cultural context and insider perspectives.

Real Examples

Understanding how others have navigated the experience can provide practical inspiration. Here are three real-life examples of concertgoers who successfully attended San Francisco Symphony performances.

Example 1: First-Time Attendee – Maria, 28

Maria, a software engineer with no formal music training, wanted to attend her first classical concert. She browsed the season schedule and chose a “Symphony & Cinema” program featuring John Williams’ scores from Star Wars. She purchased a single ticket in the loge section through the website, arriving 60 minutes early. She attended the pre-concert talk, where the musicologist explained how Williams used leitmotifs to represent characters. Maria took notes, read the program, and was amazed at how the live orchestra transformed familiar film themes into something grand and emotional. She left with a renewed appreciation for orchestral music and bought a recording of the concert to relive the experience.

Example 2: Season Subscriber – James and Elena, 65

James and Elena have been subscribers for over 15 years. They attend 8–10 concerts annually, often choosing programs that feature lesser-known 20th-century composers. They attend every pre-concert talk, participate in the Symphony’s “Music Makers” volunteer program, and host post-concert dinners with friends. Their subscription includes exchange privileges, allowing them to swap tickets if plans change. They credit the Symphony with keeping their minds active and their social life vibrant. “It’s not just music,” Elena says. “It’s a community.”

Example 3: Student Attendee – Amir, 19

Amir, a college student studying history, took advantage of the $10 student ticket program for a performance of Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony. He arrived early, read the program notes, and sat in the upper balcony. He was struck by the emotional intensity of the final movement—how the music shifted from despair to triumph. He wrote about the concert in his history seminar paper, connecting Shostakovich’s experience under Stalin to the symphony’s reception in 1937. He later attended a student-only reception with the concertmaster and decided to minor in music. “That night changed my perspective,” Amir says. “I didn’t know music could speak so loudly.”

FAQs

Can I bring children to San Francisco Symphony concerts?

Yes, children are welcome at Family Concerts and select weekday matinees. For regular evening concerts, children under 6 are not permitted. Children aged 6–17 may attend with a ticket, but parents should consider the length and intensity of the performance. The Symphony offers a “Kids’ Corner” with quiet activities before select concerts.

What if I can’t attend a concert I’ve already purchased?

Subscribers can exchange tickets for another performance in the same season, subject to availability. Single ticket holders may exchange tickets up to 24 hours before the concert for a fee. No refunds are issued unless a concert is canceled.

Is there a dress code?

There is no formal dress code. Attendees wear everything from business attire to casual outfits. The priority is comfort and respect for the environment. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes, as they can be distracting in an enclosed space.

Can I take photos during the concert?

No. Photography, video recording, and audio recording are strictly prohibited during performances. This protects the artists’ rights and ensures the integrity of the live experience. You may take photos in the lobby before or after the concert.

Are there accommodations for guests with disabilities?

Yes. Davies Symphony Hall is fully accessible. Wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, and large-print programs are available upon request. Contact the box office in advance to arrange accommodations.

How long do concerts typically last?

Most concerts run between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. Check the specific concert page for exact timing. Pops and family concerts are often shorter, around 90 minutes.

Can I bring food or drinks into the hall?

No outside food or beverages are permitted. However, the hall’s bars and concession stands offer wine, beer, sparkling water, coffee, and light snacks. You may purchase items during intermission.

Do I need to know anything about classical music to enjoy a concert?

No. The San Francisco Symphony welcomes audiences of all backgrounds. The music speaks for itself. Many attendees have no prior knowledge and still leave deeply moved. The pre-concert talks and program notes are designed to guide you—not to test you.

What if I’m late to the concert?

Latecomers are seated at the first appropriate pause in the performance, typically between movements. Staff will guide you to your seat quietly. To avoid disruption, plan to arrive early.

Can I donate my tickets if I can’t use them?

Yes. Subscribers and single ticket holders may donate unused tickets to the Symphony’s outreach programs. This allows others who might not otherwise afford a concert to attend. Contact the box office to arrange a donation.

Conclusion

Attending a San Francisco Symphony concert is more than a cultural activity—it’s a profound encounter with human creativity, discipline, and emotion. From the moment you select your seat to the final, resonant note, every element is crafted to elevate your senses and expand your understanding of music’s power. By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to attend a concert—you’re learning how to listen deeply, engage thoughtfully, and become part of a living tradition that has shaped Western art for centuries.

The San Francisco Symphony doesn’t just perform music; it invites you into a dialogue—with the composers, the musicians, and with yourself. Whether you come for the grandeur of a Mahler symphony, the wit of a Stravinsky ballet, or the warmth of a holiday favorite, you are not merely a spectator. You are a participant in something timeless.

So take the next step. Visit sfsymphony.org. Choose a date. Book your seat. Arrive early. Listen. And let the music change you.