Frequently Asked Questions
First things first…
CMDetroit cultivates world-class performances in acoustically superb venues. Our concerts are open to all and all are welcomed. Our listeners come from every community in Metro Detroit, span every age group, and are a mix of devoted patrons and first-timers. An evening of chamber music is always a memorable evening. We invite you to join us to listen together.
What do I wear?
Coming to your first CMDetroit concert, you might assume our listeners wear tuxes and ballgowns, and you may even see one or two, but the attire of our patrons runs the gambit. From students in jeans and a t-shirt, to lifelong listeners in suits, we’ve seen it all. We welcome you to our concerts as you are.
When can I talk?
It’s the horrible nightmare scenario in your head. You’re going to a classical music concert, will sit in silence for two hours and have no idea when it’s appropriate to clap. Not at CMDetroit! We are a social group of listeners who love to talk about anything and everything between works and in the lobby before, during intermission, and after the concert. Of course, when artists are performing we encourage you to just listen, but otherwise to meet and chat with some new friends!
When can I clap?
Clapping. The general rule is that you clap after a piece is complete, not between individual movements. So, if you notice in your program a piece with three movements and it looks like this:
The Best String Quartet Ever
Movement 1 (Don’t clap)
Movement 2 (Don’t clap)
Movement 3 (Clap!)
You only clap following the third (and final) movement. If all else fails, just don’t be the first to clap and you’ll be good to go!
How is it different from an orchestra?
In an orchestra there are multiple players per part, whereas in chamber music there is one player per part. In chamber orchestras, there are still multiple players to a part, but many fewer than in a symphony orchestra.
Where can I learn about the music?
Pre-concert events are free to ticket holders and are a great way to learn more about the music to be performed and the artists before the concert. They typically begin at 7:00 PM and include talks, interviews with artists, recitals or an occasional film. There are also detailed program notes given out to audience members.
How long are the concerts?
Concerts last about 1.5 - 2 hours, which includes a 15-minute intermission.
When should I arrive?
Some of our patrons arrive an hour early, some 5 minutes before the concert. As long as you’re in your seat at concert time, you’re good to go. If you do arrive late, ushers will gladly seat you during a break in the music.
What are the COVID-19 protocols?
Last Updated 08/11/2022: CMDetriot will continue to monitor local health conditions and will require masks if Oakland or Wayne County is in the high or “red” category, as defined by the CDC (HERE) on the day of the performance. If Oakland or Wayne County is in the “yellow” (medium) or “green” (low) category, masks will be encouraged but optional.
Proof of vaccination is not required, but we encourage to stay up-to-date on COVID boosters, flu shots, and other preventative measures.
Re-seating to a social distanced section is available upon request.
Avoid entry if you feel ill, have a fever, or have been exposed to someone with symptoms of COVID-19 in the past ten days.
Read our full Health & Safety Protocols at cmdetroit.org/covid.
What else?
If you have other questions about anything pertaining to our concerts, feel free to give anyone at CMDetroit a call. We are always happy to have new listeners join us! Call 313-335-3350 or email info@cmdetroit.org