Now that you’ve decided to give these candlelit performances a go, you might be wondering what to do next or how to best prepare for the occasion. In essence, it’s not your typical classical or arena concert so it’s understandable you want to know more to live the experience to the fullest. To answer all your questions, we’ve come up with five key things to know before attending a Candlelight concert that include the dress code, the program and even flexible cancellation!
1. Plan your journey
One of the main things to keep in mind is planning the journey properly to ensure you get to the concert a little before curtain time. After all, for every performance, doors open 30-60 minutes prior to the start of the show. Luckily, the captivating Candlelight concerts typically take place at historic and charming venues located in the heart of the city, such as The Detroit Masonic Temple and Sanctuary Church Birmingham. So arrive early to find good seats and make the most our of the experience.
2. Is there a dress code?
There’s this common misconception that because you’re listening to classical music or classical reinterpretations of iconic hits, you need to dress up with your fanciest clothes. But you don’t need a black tie or high heels to attend Candlelight. Wear whatever you want as long as it seems appropriate to you and you feel comfortable. Most guests show up in smart casual style, but it’s really up to you.
3. The program
The programs, which are subject to change, are carefully selected by the concert series’ music curators, who always choose an artist’s greatest and most well-beloved hits. Certainly, we don’t all have the same favorites and the setlist can’t cater to everyone’s taste, but you’re sure to find more than a few songs you like at these 60-minute tributes.
4. What about the musicians?
Depending on the concert you’ve chosen, you might be serenated by string quartets, full orchestras or local bands. For instance, if you’re attending a jazz tribute, you’ll be hearing a talented jazz band lay out iconic songs from the genre.
Still, most tributes are performed by string quartets, because certain music is better adapted for quartets. Featuring two violins, a viola and a cello, string quartets are pretty famous because they can reach a wide range of registers and tonalities, evoking emotions and feelings like no other instrument can.
5. Flexible cancellation
In case you messed up the dates, or simply something unexpected has come up, you can reschedule or claim a refund up to 48 hours before start time if you chose this option at the moment of purchase. What’s more, if the reason for not making it is due to vacation days, but you still want to experience a magical Candlelight concert, these performances can be enjoyed in over 100 cities worldwide.
Hopefully, you feel a bit more prepared to discover your next Candlelight concert thanks to these tips that cover a number of things from dress code to the musicians. Now, all that’s left is for you to enjoy the show. And if you do love it and want to share it with friends, you can always give the gift of Candlelight with this super handy gift card.