What should I wear to Manchester Camerata concerts?
You can wear what ever you like to our concerts. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and enjoy the music.
When do I clap?
When a piece is complete. It can be difficult to tell when a piece is over, but there are ways of working it out:
Pieces are split up into sections or “movements”. If you have a programme the movements will be listed at the top of the note for each piece (they often have Italian names which convey the style or speed they should be played).
Usually there is a short break between each movement, so you can count how many movements there will be and note which point in the music the orchestra has reached at the end of each movement.
Another good tip is to watch the conductor. Conductors will usually pause while still being engaged in the performance at the end of a piece, and then noticeably relax, putting their arms by their sides and turning to face the audience to receive their applause.
Sometimes it's good to enjoy the moment of silence just after the piece has finished anyway. If you are unsure as to whether the piece has finished, wait for someone else to clap first!
What is classical music and how are orchestras made up?
“Classical” music normally refers to Western music for orchestral instruments written between 1650 and the present - although confusingly it also refers to the style of music written between 1750 and 1810 (the time of Haydn and Mozart).
The orchestra is normally divided into four “family” groups (from left to right as you look at the stage):
· Strings (first and second violins, violas, cellos and double basses)
· Woodwind (flutes, oboes, clarinets, bassoons)
· Brass (french horns, trumpets, trombones and sometimes tubas)
· Percussion (anything from kettle drums or timpani to whistles and the triangle)
What is a ‘chamber’ orchestra?
A chamber orchestra is an orchestra with smaller forces than a symphony orchestra, though the actual number of musicians you might see on stage is very flexible. This creates a special feeling of intimacy; audiences can see the commitment of each individual player. Being close to the action is what our concert-goers find exciting, it’s like hearing a group of soloists who have chosen to make music together.
What does Camerata mean?
The Orchestra's name was inspired by a 16th century group of artists called the Florentine Camerata who met to share ideas and discuss the arts. Their spirit of friendship inspires our own approach.
Where should I sit?
There is a range of different priced seating at all the venues we perform at. The best thing to do is call the box office for the concert you’d like to attend and ask the box office staff. They are very knowledgeable about their venue and are there to help. They’ll be able to help you decide where to sit, whether you want the best seat for a good view of the soloists frock or the best acoustics!
How do I get a career with Manchester Camerata?
If you are a musician…
Send your CV to:
Orchestra Manager
Manchester Camerata
RNCM
124 Oxford Road
Manchester
M13 9RD
If you would like to work as part of Manchester Camerata’s management team…
We advertise all available posts, including volunteer positions, in relevant publications. So keep your eyes peeled!
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