The setup was beautiful to watch as it was to listen. The performance tok place in an old community church adorned with over 2000 candles.
I recently attended a performance hosted by Candlelight, a live, multi-sensory musical concert that is hosted across the world. Local musicians showcase their interpretation of classical and contemporary pieces. For example, I attended a classical quartet featuring Bach, Tchaikovsky and Beethoven. If you’re someone who hasn’t been to a classical music quartet before, the idea of attending one can seem daunting at first. However, it can be an enriching and enlightening experience for the ears and the mind. The classical quartet I attended was comprised of professional musicians and gave a stellar performance. For busy AU students looking to relax and decompress, listening to a live performance can improve the mood and be good for our mental wellbeing. It also felt as if I had time-traveled to the baroque and classical eras when the music was composed and performed for family of royalty.
Classical music quartets typically consist of four musicians playing instruments such as the violin, viola, cello, and piano. The concert I attended had a phenomenal set up with over 2000 candles that illuminated the stage. This gave the illusion of a concert under the moonlight.
If you’re looking to attend a local musical performance, here are some tips to help you enjoy your first experience at a classical music performance:
Dress Appropriately
Dressing up for the event makes the occasion special and shows your respect for the performers.
While there’s no strict dress code for classical music concerts, it’s recommended that you dress up a little bit for the occasion. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the performers and helps create a more formal atmosphere.
Arrive Early
Arriving early will give you enough time to find your seat and get settled in before the performance starts. You may also want to take some time to explore the venue and read any information about the quartet that’s provided.
Familiarize Yourself with the Program
The program will list the pieces that the quartet will be playing during the performance. Take a few moments to read through the program and familiarize yourself with the pieces. This will help you appreciate the music more fully and follow along with the performance.
Be Respectful
During the performance, it’s important to be respectful of the musicians and other audience members. Turn off your cell phone and avoid talking or making any unnecessary noise. If you need to cough or sneeze, try to do so quietly or during a break in the music.
Concerts make a great date night activity as it is a different sensory experience and also helps you connect with your loved ones through music.
Let the Music Speak to You
This relates to the last point in that turning off our cellphones and fully immersing in the music. Classical music can be complex and challenging to understand, but it’s also incredibly beautiful and moving. Let the music speak to you and allow yourself to get lost in the performance. You may find yourself experiencing a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to sadness and reflection.
Attending a classical music quartet for the first time can be a wonderful experience. By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the music and create a memorable experience for yourself.
