Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions, please contact our Patron Services office at 903.526.3876 or email [email protected].
Attending your first ETSO concert?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where does the East Texas Symphony Orchestra Perform?
The ETSO Subscription Series concerts are performed in the Vaughn Auditorium of the University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center. The UT Tyler campus is located at 3900 University, Tyler, TX 75799.
In addition, the East Texas Symphony Orchestra Association presents special programs (with and without orchestra) at various venues around the community such as Tyler Junior College and Bergfeld Park.
Where do I get my tickets?
You may purchase subscriptions and single tickets for the East Texas Symphony Orchestra Subscription Series concerts through the UT Tyler Cowan Center Box Office.
The Box Office is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and from 6:15 pm on the day of each concert. You may visit the box office in person on the UT Tyler campus or call 903-566-7424.
For online ticket ordering options following the links at www.ETSO.org. Online ordering is available up to two hours prior to the performance.
Tickets for non-subscription events are sold through the ETSO office. Follow the link on the event page or call 903-526-3876 for more information.
Do you offer any special price discounts?
The East Texas Symphony Orchestra offers discounted subscription and single ticket prices for students (through full-time college) for its Subscription Series concerts. Discounts and pricing for non-subscription series concerts may vary. Please check the related event page for details.
May I bring my children?
You’re welcome to bring any children old enough to enjoy the performance. We do ask that you avoid bringing babes-in-arms, and that you make sure your children are seated next to you. All children must have a ticket. In addition to the ETSO Subscription Series, the orchestra also presents special family-oriented programming throughout the year.
What if I lose my tickets?
If you lose your ticket(s) to an ETSO Subscription Series concert, please contact the UT Tyler Cowan Center Box Office at 903.566.7424. They will be able to reprint your tickets for you.
When should I arrive for the concert?
We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the posted start time of the concert. This gives you adequate time to find parking, purchase your tickets, and locate your seat.
What if I arrive late?
If you are late, you will be admitted to the hall at an appropriate break in the concert program. Admission will be at the direction of the ushers and house manager.
What should I wear?
Most people wear dressy casual clothes to the subscription series concerts, but you will see everything from jeans to cocktail dresses. The most important part is that you show up and have fun! Please be considerate of those in the audience who may have allergies and/or multiple chemical sensitivities and refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, or other scented products.
How long is a typical performance?
Most of our Subscription Series concerts are approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes long, including one 20-minute intermission. Family concerts are approximately an hour long with no intermission.
When do I clap?
Although our musicians don’t object to applause at any time, most audiences wait until the end of an entire piece to clap. If you’re not sure when a piece ends, just check your program. Beneath the name of each piece, it will list the piece’s movements, or sections. The audience usually waits until the last movement is over to clap.
If you’re still not sure, you can keep an eye on the conductor – when the piece is over, he will put his arms down and turn to the audience. Or, you can just wait until the clapping begins and then join in!
What if I have to cough?
Please bring some cough drops with you to help you avoid coughing during the performance. If possible, unwrap your cough drop during a break in the music. If you begin to cough a lot, it’s acceptable and appropriate to quietly exit the auditorium. You will be allowed to return to the auditorium during the next pause in the performance.
May I take photos or shoot video during performances?
Out of respect to your fellow audience members, the orchestra and our guest artists, photography, along with audio and video recording, is not permitted during ETSO performances.
May I bring my cell phone?
If you bring your cell phone or other electronic devices be sure to turn them off before the performance begins. This will enhance your ability to fully engage with the performance in the hall. It also is a great excuse to disconnect from the demands of the outside world for a couple of hours.
What else do I need to know?
You don’t need to know a lot about the music in advance. Notes on the works to be performed will be provided in your program. Notes are often published on the concert page the week before the concert.
What is most important is to come to the concert and experience the excitement of a live orchestral performance.