Guide to Attending Concerts

Everything you need to know to enjoy classical music performances in Austria.

Your First Classical Concert

Attending a classical concert in Austria is one of the world's great cultural experiences. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or attending your first performance, this guide will help you navigate the traditions, etiquette, and practical aspects of enjoying music in Austria's legendary venues.

Classical concerts can seem intimidating to newcomers, but they shouldn't be. The purpose of all the customs and traditions is simply to allow everyone to focus on the music without distraction. Understanding a few basics will help you relax and fully appreciate the experience.

What to Wear

Dress codes in Austria vary depending on the venue, event type, and time of performance:

Evening Performances at Major Venues

For evening concerts at the Musikverein, Vienna State Opera, or similar prestigious venues, smart attire is appropriate. Men typically wear suits or sports jackets with dress trousers; women often choose cocktail dresses or elegant separates. While full evening dress (tuxedos and gowns) is not required for regular performances, you'll see many guests dressed formally, especially at premieres and gala events.

Afternoon and Matinee Performances

For daytime concerts, the dress code is more relaxed. Smart casual attire is perfectly acceptable. Business casual for men (dress trousers, collared shirt) and comparable attire for women is typical.

Standing Room and Student Tickets

If you're attending on a standing room ticket, comfortable shoes are essential as you'll be on your feet for 2-4 hours. Dress is more casual for standing room audiences, though still neat and presentable.

Special Events

Premieres, opening nights, and events like the Vienna Opera Ball have stricter dress codes. For the Opera Ball, white tie for men and full-length gowns for women are required. Check specific event requirements when booking.

Concert Etiquette

Before the Performance

Arrive at least 20 minutes early to find your seat and review the program
Visit the restroom before taking your seat; leaving during a piece is disruptive
Turn off your phone completely; vibration is audible in quiet passages
Unwrap any cough sweets before the music begins
Review the program to understand when applause is appropriate

During the Performance

Remain silent and still during the music; save comments for intermission
Never applaud between movements of a symphony, concerto, or sonata
Wait for the conductor to lower their arms before applauding at the end
If you must cough, try to time it with loud passages
Never leave during a piece; wait for applause between works
Photography and recording are strictly prohibited

When to Applaud

Understanding when to applaud is perhaps the most confusing aspect for newcomers:

Orchestral concerts: Applaud only after the final movement of a complete work. Symphony programs typically indicate movements; applause comes after all movements are complete.
Concertos: The same rule applies. Even if a soloist plays a dazzling cadenza, wait until the entire concerto ends.
Opera: Applause is appropriate after arias and at the end of acts. Bravos for singers are traditional. Standing ovations at the final curtain are common for exceptional performances.
Recitals: Applaud between complete works or song groups, not between individual songs in a cycle.

Booking Tickets

Advance Booking

For popular performances, especially at the Vienna State Opera and Musikverein, booking well in advance is essential. The New Year's Concert requires a lottery application a year ahead. Regular season tickets typically go on sale 2-3 months before performances.

Where to Book

Official venue websites: The most reliable source with full seat selection
Vienna Ticket Office: Official city ticket service for multiple venues
Hotel concierges: Can often secure tickets for guests, sometimes at premium prices
Box offices: Limited same-day availability for walk-up purchases

Standing Room Tickets

The Vienna State Opera's standing room tradition offers world-class opera for just 10-15 euros. Tickets go on sale at the box office 80 minutes before performance time. For popular productions, dedicated opera fans begin queuing hours earlier. The experience is intense but rewarding, with some of the most knowledgeable audiences in any opera house.

Ticket Tips

For Musikverein concerts, seats in the "Parterre" (main floor) offer the finest acoustics. At the State Opera, the "Parkett" stalls and first "Rang" (tier) provide the best combination of sound and sightlines. Avoid extreme side seats if possible.

Understanding the Program

Program Structure

Most orchestral concerts follow a standard format:

An overture or shorter opening work (10-15 minutes)
A concerto featuring a solo instrumentalist (25-40 minutes)
Intermission (15-20 minutes)
A symphony or major orchestral work (30-60 minutes)

Reading Program Notes

Programs (often included in ticket price or sold separately) contain valuable information about the works being performed. Reading these before or during intermission enhances appreciation, providing historical context and highlighting musical elements to listen for.

No Understanding of Music Required

You don't need musical training to enjoy classical music. Let the music wash over you; notice how it makes you feel. Over time, repeated listening will reveal more layers and connections. The greatest music communicates directly to the human spirit without requiring intellectual analysis.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Pre-Concert Preparation

If possible, listen to recordings of the works on the program before attending. This helps you recognize themes and follow the musical argument. Even a single listen will significantly enhance your concert experience.

Arriving Early

Austria's concert halls are architectural treasures worth exploring. Arrive early to admire the Musikverein's gilded splendor or the State Opera's magnificent foyer and grand staircase. Many venues offer pre-concert drinks or dining options.

Intermission

Use the intermission to stretch, visit the bar, and discuss the first half with your companions. Austrian concert halls often serve champagne, wine, and small snacks. The social atmosphere is part of the experience.

After the Concert

Many concert halls are near excellent restaurants and cafes. The tradition of post-concert discussion over coffee or a glass of wine is a treasured part of Viennese musical culture.

Quick Links

Checklist

Book tickets in advance
Check venue dress code
Arrive 20+ minutes early
Turn phone completely off
Use restroom before seating
Review program for applause timing
Enjoy the experience!

Useful German Terms

Pause: Intermission
Garderobe: Coat check
Parkett: Orchestra/stalls seating
Rang: Tier/balcony level
Stehplatz: Standing room
Kasse: Box office