Information for Newcomers
If you are new to Sheffield University Concerts, or classical music in general – you are very welcome! People often vision the concert hall to be intimidating for those who do not frequent it often – don´t worry about it! The following answers to some frequently asked questions should point newcomers in the right direction, hopefully making your first trip to a Sheffield University Concert a pleasant one.
How long do concerts last?
Concert length can differ from each concert but generally our evening concerts are 90 minutes long, plus a 20 minute interval. Our lunchtime and rush-hour concerts generally last between 45 minutes to an hour, and run without intermission.
Can I bring my children?
Absolutely! Children are welcome at all our concerts at the reduced rate of £2.50. The following link is one of many online guides aimed to educate children about classical music, and contains lots of information on instruments and types of music featured in our concert series.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/orchestras/guide/
What time do concerts start and what time should I arrive?
Our evening concerts usually start at 7.30pm and our free lunchtime concerts usually start at 1.10pm - although you are advised to check our season schedules (links on the left) in case of any alterations.
We open the doors at 7.00pm for our evening concerts and 12.45pm for our free lunchtime concerts, and advise people to arrive no later than 5-10 minutes before the start of each concert.
What happens if i'm late?
Don´t panic. For our evening concerts you will simply be asked to take a seat outside till an appropriate break in the music, when you will be shown to a seat.
For are lunchtime concerts members of the audience are invited to arrive and leave at any point during the concert.
What should I wear/Is there a dress code?
Wear whatever you like! Contrary to what people believe, our audience members generally don´t wear dinner jackets and ball gowns (although don´t feel that you can´t!)
I´m not musical. Will I enjoy the concert?
Definitely! Firstly you are likely to be more musical then you think; music features in all our lives in one way or another, and you don´t have to be a musical genius to enjoy our concerts. No pre-knowledge required!
Will I recognise any of the music?
The chances are you will recognise a lot more then you´d think. Many of today´s pop music, television/film themes and advertisement themes are taken from classical music.
How are concerts ordered and when shall I clap?
Generally the programme (which is free of charge) will give you an idea about how concerts are ordered. As a rule it is normal to clap after every piece rather than each individual movement, but when in doubt just clap when everyone else claps.
Will I be able to purchase refreshments?
Wine and juice is available to purchase during the interval in our evening concerts.
Where can I eat and drink before/after the concert?
University venues are conveniently situated near various local amenities. The Interval Bar in the student union serve excellent food as does the Harley Hotel. Our venues are in walking distance to West Street, which features an extensive range of restaurants and bars.
Where can I park?
Free parking is available in the Durham Road Carpark after 5pm.
Is there disabled access?
All our venues offer access for disabled people. Please enquire for more information.
How can I find out more about the music?
Why not come to a pre-concert talk or workshop? These are great opportunities to discover more about the music and ask any questions you have.
Our programmes will give you enough information about the music, but if you have any further questions about the music, just send us an email...
How can I get more information?
Give us a call on 0114 222 0468 or send an email to concerts@sheffield.ac.uk and we will be able to answer any queries you may have.
We look forward to welcoming you to one of our concerts!