Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival! We’re thrilled to have you join us for a memorable evening of live performance. Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

If you don’t find the answer to your question, you can talk to our friendly staff Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm by calling 248-559-2097

What is Chamber Music?

Chamber music is a genre of classical music composed for small ensembles, typically ranging from two to ten musicians. Unlike orchestral music, chamber music is typically performed without a conductor, emphasizing the collaborative effort between musicians. The intimate setting allows for a closer connection between performers and the audience, making each concert a uniquely personal experience.

How do I order tickets?

Order by phone at 248-559-2097 or visit our Performances page.

What if I cannot find my tickets?

This year, all tickets are digital and emailed to you. Please bring this to the event. If you cannot find or access your tickets, the box office will be able to assist you. We have a record of every ticket purchase and a full seating map for every concert.

When to Arrive

Both the Festival seating area and the Help Desk will open on-site 30 minutes prior to the start of each performance. All seats are reserved. Bring a printout of your ticket or view the tickets on your smartphone. We will use touchless scanning of tickets at the entrance to the venue. Please visit our website to check if there are any last-minute schedule changes.

How Long are Festival Concerts?

The length of each concert is posted on the ticket pages for your convenience. Typically, concerts run between 1 to 1.5 hours. For performances exceeding 90 minutes, there will be an intermission to ensure your comfort.

What Should I Wear?

There is no strict dress code, “smart casual” attire is recommended. This means dressing nicely but not overly formally. Here are some examples:

For Men: Button-down shirts and slacks.
For Women: A blouse paired with a dressy skirt or pants, or a casual dress.

Most importantly, choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable while still being respectful of the musical setting.

Many of the audience members choose to dress more formally for the Opening Night, especially if they plan to attend the Opening Night Gala which follows the concert.

Where Can I Find Venue Information?

The Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival takes place across several venues in metro Detroit. Detailed information about each venue, including addresses and parking options, can be found on our Venue Information page. You can also explore our interactive map for directions and accessibility details.

When Should I Clap?

In classical music concerts, clapping is traditionally reserved for the end of a complete piece, rather than between movements. This practice respects the continuity of the music and the performers’ concentration. Here are some helpful tips:

Count the Movements: Refer to the program to see how many movements the piece has; each movement usually has a distinct tempo marking.
Wait for the Conductor: The conductor or performers often signal the end of a piece by lowering their arms or relaxing their posture.
Follow the Audience: If you’re unsure, take cues from other audience members.
Don’t Clap First: When in doubt, wait until others begin clapping.

For our Tasting Notes series, a more casual approach is encouraged. Feel free to clap whenever you feel inspired by the performance. Our program notes, handed out at each concert, will also provide guidance on the artists’ preferences regarding applause.

Are Chamber Music Concerts Suitable for Children?

Yes, chamber music concerts can be a wonderful experience for children, especially if they have an interest in music. However, it’s important to consider the child’s age and attention span. Many of our concerts are family-friendly, and we also offer programs specifically designed to engage younger audiences. Check our website for details about family-oriented performances and events.

How Can I Learn More About the Music Being Performed?

We provide detailed program notes for each concert, which include background information about the pieces being performed, the composers, and the musicians. These notes are available at the venue and online prior to the performance. Additionally, pre-concert talks may be offered for some events, where you can gain deeper insights from experts and performers.

Can I Meet the Musicians?

Our free Artistic Encounters series at the Bloomfield Township Public Library include opportunities for casual interaction, where you can ask questions, share your appreciation, or learn more about their artistic journey.

What Accessibility Options Are Available?

We are committed to making our concerts accessible to all. Most of our venues offer wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and other accommodations. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us in advance so we can ensure your experience is comfortable and enjoyable.

How can I exchange or donate my ticket?

All ticket exchanges and ticket donations need to be arranged at least 24 hours prior to each concert. At the event, current tickets cannot be exchanged or donated.

Additionally, tickets for past events cannot be exchanged or donated. Tickets cannot be exchanged for performances at the Capitol Theatre, Kerrytown Concert House or St. Matthew’s & St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church. Please visit greatlakeschambermusic.org/ performances to view eligible performances.