User’s Guide to Orchestra Rehearsals and Concerts
TOP TEN QUESTIONS

Or Everything you always wanted to ask about the orchestra but were pretty
sure everyone else already knew—so wouldn’t ask.
(But they didn’t know either)

Question #1
Why does the audience applaud when the concertmaster enters the stage?
Tradition and respect for the concertmaster’s responsibility as the lead orchestral musician. The orchestra will also stand when the conductor enters.

Question #2
Why does the orchestra tune to the oboe?
Of all the instruments, the oboe holds the pitch the most consistently. Why is the tuning pitch an A? The A is an “open” string for the violins, violas and cello, and is a middle, comfortable register for all of the instruments.

Question #3
Why do all of the bows move in the same direction in the string section?
This is so everyone in a section is playing the same phrasing of the music. Typically, the bowing is indicated in the music by the concertmaster.

Question #4
Sometimes it looks like the musicians are not always watching the conductor during a concert. Why is that?
The musicians don’t always look at the conductor directly but will often use peripheral vision so they can read their music and follow the conductor simultaneously.

Question #5
What role do the principals (first chairs) have in a performance?
They simultaneously follow the conductor and lead their section.

Question #6
Why are there so many more violins than other instruments?
Violins tend to be the ‘melody’ instrument and other strings such as the viola generally play a more supporting role. In addition, the violin does not have the volume of the brass and percussion instruments, so more are needed.

Question #7
Is it appropriate to clap between movements?
Often yes! At the end of a large concerto movement, applause is welcome. Sometimes, if the mood is very quiet, it is better to hold the mood. Generally, the conductor’s hands are a good indication. If the hands are raised, it is best to not applaud.

Question #8
Why do the musicians wear black?
Concerts used to be rather formal occasions. Today, orchestras often present casual concerts but black gives a consistent look for a whole orchestra.

Question #9
When musicians share a music stand, who turns the page?
The ‘inside’ player generally turns the page for the ‘outside’ player who is the one closest to the audience.

Question #10
Why is the orchestra seating arranged the way it is?
The brass and percussion sections produce more sound and are always behind the woodwinds and strings. Since there is a large section of strings playing together, they fan out to form a circle immediately around the conductor.