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Symphony Hall
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Performing Arts, Music Venues [Edit]
301 Massachusetts AveBoston, MA 02108
(617) 266-1492
- Nearest Transit:
-
Massachusetts Ave @ Westland Ave (1, 170, CT1)
Massachusetts Ave @ Westland Ave (1, CT1)
Symphony Station - Inbound (Green Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 6 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
118 reviews for Symphony Hall
118 reviews in English
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Review from Eric F.
3/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
Easily the best performance hall in Boston! Beautifully decorated with comfortable seating, spacious lounge areas for refreshments and well-kept restrooms. I was here just the other night for Distant Worlds: music from Final Fantasy and it was an AMAZING performance! The acoustics were excellent and the projection display went without a hitch.
I'm so glad that I was able to finally come here for a show and I'd say Symphony Hall is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Boston.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/27/2012
Thanks very much, Eric! More » -
Review from Harri S.
1/23/2012
Why I am a fan of the BSO:
1) The wow factor when you walk into place is undeniable, but so is the stench of old money.
2) They sell beveraahhges. You know, the kind that make you want to make love to Handel and Haydn barring the necrophillia.
3) I live a block away and got free seats. -
Review from Ashley C.
Chicago, IL
1/21/2012
We planned a trip to the symphony for our visit to Boston. First, symphony hall is absolutely beautiful. If you're under 40, you can get tickets for $20 which is just amazing! What a wonderful idea! We scored excellent seats in the orchestra level. The acoustics were pretty good.
We were there for the Beethoven and Harbison performance. I was very much looking forward to it, however, I did not realize that the Harbison performance had vocalists. I think of the symphony as being a orchestral symphony. While I can appreciate the baritone and soprano performers, I personally did not care for the vocalists. It was just not what I was expecting. I thought the second act, with Beethoven, was much better. The pianist was absolutely wonderful and very talented.
Overall, the place is laid out well for intermission with a few bars scattered throughout the lobby areas. I would love to go back for more performances and hope to see the Boston Pops someday.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/30/2012
Thanks for the review, Ashley! You can always check to see… More » -
Review from Suzanne L.
Medford, MA
5/23/2012
Helpful staff, beautiful space, and super easy to get to (you literally walk out of the T stop and its there!). I've mostly experienced Symphony Hall with the College Card deal - which is fabulous if it works for your schedule, I highly recommend it - and I love it!
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Review from Doug M.
Boston, MA
5/17/2012
Boston Symphony Hall is trully one of the best ones I've been so far. The staff is super nice and I am always imressed with how they degorate the place.
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 5/23/2012
Thanks very much, Doug! More » -
Review from Andrew C.
Boston, MA
10/18/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Pros: Classy with a capital "C", vintage but just modern enough. Easy to get to location. Great lineup. Fair acoustics. Unbelievably good value on tickets.
Cons: noisy seats. Balcony seats with less legroom than a South American airline.
Had the chance to catch Yo Yo Ma here and managed to snag solid balcony seats for about $32 bucks each. For those not in the know..that is at the "are you kidding me" level of value. San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles...these are but a few of the places that will take you (and your wallet) to the HOUSE for the pleasure of enjoying their symphonies' company. Solid salute to the BSO for not ripping people off!
The acoustics are a solid B, not B+ but not B-minus either. Yes, Phily and LA put it to shame but those places cost a gazillion dollars ok? The whole place has a 1960s updated to 1990s feel but is very clean, well-maintained, and actually, beautiful in its own way. Bars are well-organized and most importantly, BIG...for those thirsty intermissions.
Music selection? Well, Yo Yo Ma playing dvorak is stunning. Using that to get people to listen to an hour and half of Bartok after the intermission though? A bit tricky... that being said. I'm not going to hold the music selection against the BSO, with an orchestra this well-conducted, you have to take some chances.
So what are you waiting for? Contrary to popular belief, classical music is not just for your grandparents. Show off your culture-sense and take this opportunity to wear that blazer that's gathering dust in your closet!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 10/18/2011
Thanks for this great review, Andrew! Symphony Hall,… More » -
Review from Elizabeth P.
Medford, MA
1/20/2012
I've been to Symphony Hall for a few BSO concerts now over the course of the first-half of the 2011-2012 season, and very much recommend a visit. The hall is wonderfully historic in feel, the orchestra is fabulously talented, the choice of pieces performed is usually very solid, and the caliber of the guest performers is world-class. Do not miss this!
If you're under 40, you can get tickets for $20, which is pretty darn awesome. Are you a college student interested in stopping by to hear a performance occasionally? Get a college card... pay $25 dollars and you can get free tickets for as many performances as you'd like for the rest of the season (Note: you do have to stop by the Box Office to get your tickets, and can't get them earlier than about a week in advance). Of course, there are also rush tickets available too ($9 each, cash only), if you're looking for another way to get a good deal. Do be aware that with all of these options, you don't have as much of a say on where you get to sit. That being said, you stand a very good shot of getting a fabulous seat. On my three visits this season I've tried all three of these options and have had excellent seats on the right side of the first level of the balcony (my favorite area to sit), very good seats in the orchestra (the very center of row S), and solid seats in the orchestra (slightly to the left in row FF). Regardless of where you sit, you won't be disappointed... the pieces sounded fabulous in all three of the locations.
This current season (2011-2012), the BSO is without a permanent conductor, so they've had guest conductors come in for each program. Personally, I've found this to be a fun approach--it's been interesting to get to see the styles of several different maestros. The music selections are a nice mix... they perform many well-known works, but also sneak in some more unusual choices. The most recent concert I attended, for example, featured a rousing rendition of Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring," as well as a first-half which included Tomasi's "Procession du Vendredi-Saint" (from Fanfares liturgiques), which not even Wikipedia could identify. So yes, there are lots of orchestral staples on the schedule, but also some less-expected pieces as well.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/30/2012
Thanks very much for this wonderful review, Elizabeth. Very… More » -
Review from Aaron H.
Watertown, MA
9/14/2011
If you're under 40, live in Boston, and have never been to see the BSO, get on the phone immediately and order your $20 tickets. The seating is a bit random (your only choice is orchestra or balcony seats), but I've ended up with spots that range from simply solid (middle of the first balcony) to absolutely incredible (six rows back from the stage, dead center, for Joshua Bell doing the Brahms violin concerto).
As other folks have pointed out below, Symphony Hall is regularly cited as one of the top-few music halls in the world, and the BSO is perennially one of the strongest orchestras in the country. And while it's a shame to have James Levine off the podium, the Symphony has done a solid job of maintaining a constant rotation of world-class conductors. Probably the strongest criticism you might level at them is that the programming is a bit conservative, but that's all the better if going to the symphony isn't a major habit of yours. As for the ambiance, the hall itself still looks much like it did over a century ago, other than most of the statues, which a ladies social group chose out of a catalog to decorate the interior a few years after it was built (no joke). Simple, beautiful, unique, and not much more expensive than seeing a movie at your multiplex of choice.
ProTip: coat check is free other than the tip, but the post-concert line during the winter is massive. Stuff it under your seat and beat the crowd to the T on the way out!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 10/18/2011
Thanks Aaron! Great review! More » -
Review from Maui L.
Cambridge, MA
2/16/2012
Simply the best! Affordable prices, great acoustic and fantastic repertoire! Best musicians from all around the world perform on our stage. You can take a free tour to learn more about Symphony Hall or attend a pre-concert lecture.
And do not forget about Symphony Cafe!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/22/2012
Thanks Maui! More » -
Review from Belle L.
3/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
It was our first time visiting Boston and watching the BSO at the Symphony Hall was a MUST! I think any seat in the house will give you a great acoustic experience, so with that in mind I had purchased our tickets on the 2nd balcony. I read on a few blogs that being on the top level closest to the back wall had the best acoustics.
When we got to our seats I realized we had a limited view as the right side of the balcony didn't allow us to view the orchestra members seated on our right side. Maybe not an issue to some, but I like to see everything in front of me and the facial expressions of the musicians. Usually when I purchase tickets it would tell me if there was an obstructed view - but I didn't get that when I bought these. Luckily we got to the hall early so I was able to upgrade our seats. This time seated in the 2nd balcony, pretty centered to stage. So FYI - if in doubt, call in advance to get clarification on your view.
The hall is gorgeous. I couldn't stop staring at all the interior architecture. The seating is a bit narrow, but we didn't mind. It was old world architecture at its best! One peeve was the couple next to us, they kept eating during the last half of the show. Are you serious?
People are dressed from super casual to elegant, though when we went it seemed to be more of the former. It would be nice to see more people dressed up for such a beautiful venue, but in the end..we all just want to hear beautiful music! Thank you BSO for such a great symphony experience - we attended the awesome Debussy, Delius, Mozart, and Strauss concert.
To those visiting Boston, it's very close to the T-Station (we took the green line) making it convenient to locate. And last I checked they had discounted ticket pricing for those under 40! woohoo!!Listed in: things to see, watch, learn,…
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/21/2011
Thanks so much for this wonderful review, Belle! You are… More » -
Review from Elena L.
Boston, MA
1/11/2012
It is one of my favorite places in Boston. We went there many times with my family. It is especially nice during holidays. Boston Pops rock :-) Last time we went to Boston Pops holiday concert in December of 2011, I Skyped my sister who was 4000 miles away. She loved the concert very much, so I think it is safe to say this place is universally good :-)
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/13/2012
Thanks Elena! More » -
Review from Deanna D.
12/16/2010
We went to a Holiday Pops show and were totally impressed. The space is absolutely gorgeous: gold everywhere, elaborate statues, beautiful architecture, and great acoustics. The show was great...they played all the classics and some. It got everyone in the holiday spirit.
The crowd was eclectic: the young and beautiful mixed in with the older folks in the tacky fur coats....exactly what you would expect.
The ticket prices for the Pops show were reasonable and I will definitely take advantage of the under 40 discounts for the BSO shows.
I loved getting all dolled up, listening to beautiful music and enjoying a lovely night on the town....it was a great date night!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/4/2011
Thanks for this great review, Deanna! More » -
Review from Farrah K.
Boston's Symphony Hall, built in the 1890s is considered the finest concert hall in America, and among the the top three halls in the world for the carefully engineered and perfect acoustics. In my humble opinion, it really is brilliant to listen to the BSO and Boston Pops perform here! You feel surrounded by the music.
I love the interior too. The leather seats are still the originals (back in the day people definitely had some short legs going on, btw), the greek statues that line the walls are also very interesting. I learned they are there as Boston was called the Athens of America, so they seem to have taken that literally.
I just went to my third performance at Symphony hall this past weekend. The first two times I went I experienced the Pops, and this past weekend I saw the BSO perform.
Wonderful night! Mussorgsky, Beethoven and Prokofiev.
My boyfirend and I totally dressed up to go, which was so much fun. I wore an adorable cocktail dress with a flaring skirt, and my man wore a suit. I think we were a little overdressed looking at the bulk of the people there. There were definitely some very elegant looking older folks, but I was dissapointed seeing people of my generation at the performance in jeans.
The bars supplied plentiful drinks and coffee and snacks. Intermission had some lines for the bathroom as would be expected, and the coat check was free.
If you go to a performance, take advantage of the pre-concert talk!!! I learned so much and gained an understanding of the pieces that would be performed as well as why those pieces were chosen for this concert.
BSO gave an earth-shatteringly amazing performance, the guest conductor was wonderful, and I was very impressed by the pianist who perfomed Beethoven's Piano Concerto no.3 in A minor.
**tip to those of you under 40, you can get discount tickets just for being young!!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/7/2011
Thanks for this great review, Farrah! More » -
Review from Emily D.
12/22/2010 26 Check-ins Here
I may be a bit biased since I work for the symphony but it really is an awesome experience to see a performance here. I've been coming to Symphony Hall to see performances here for the past 10 years.
There's really nothing different I can say that everyone else hasn't already said. I feel proud to live in Boston and have the opportunity to come here and see shows.
A tourist spot definitely worth going to.Listed in: When I think of Boston..., My Day to Day Surroundings.
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/4/2011
Thanks Emily! More » -
Review from Gina M.
Hudson, MA
11/8/2011
Easy to get to location a great place to enjoying their symphonies' Unbelievably good value on tickets. a must do in Boston ma
Listed in: what to do after 5
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 12/7/2011
Thanks Gina! More » -
Review from Elana S.
Boston, MA
5/19/2011
We live in Boston. This kind of place is why we live in Boston.
Especially if you're under 40, there's no reason you shouldn't check out a concert at Symphony Hall. The BSO has a 20 under 40 program that gets anyone under 40 tix for 20 bucks plus a fee. Having never been to see the Pops in concert, the 20 under 40 program was the perfect chance to have the Pops experience. Symphony Hall is beautiful, the Pops rock (really), and it's a fun, relatively inexpensive night out. You can even get food and drinks while you're enjoying the show at darling little tables.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 5/21/2011
Thanks for the great review, Elana! More » -
Review from Kathleen F.
Somerville, MA
6/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am so happy that after 3+ years of living in Boston I finally made it to symphony hall! We went to a Pops concert to take advantage of the $20 orchestra seats for people under $40. The experience was phenomenal! The hall itself is beautiful and I love that you can sit at your own little table and order some wine and cheese, sit back and relax and enjoy yourself.
The pops are so impressive, and I loved that they invite talented singers to join them on stage. Definitely want to hit up another concert before the end of the summer, can't wait to see a concert again!!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 10/18/2011
Thanks Kathleen! Hope to see you back soon! More » -
Review from Angela T.
Quincy, MA
3/21/2011
Close to the T? Check. Close to a handful of really nice and reasonable restaurants? Check. Beautiful space with pretty nice acoustics? Check.
We went here last Friday for a Handel and Haydn Society performance of Beethoven's Fifth (and others). The music was fantastic, the whole building has a nice layout, the staff was courteous, and the hall itself is well sized - we had seats near the back of the orchestra section and we could still see and hear fine. Very good deal for the cheaper price of the tickets. I hadn't been to the hall in a very long time, but I can't wait to go back next month for Mozart's Requiem! It was really a great experience.
The seating is a bit narrow and needs an upgrade from the old stiff wood seats and you would do better to buy drinks at your restaurant before the show because the high (although expected) prices, but it totally worth the money and time to hear some incredible music and see the gorgeous space.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/24/2011
Thanks very much, Angela! More » -
Review from John S.
3/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
A first tier orchestra deserves a home like the one Symphony Hall provides. It is an absolute gem that is both easy to get to and easy to get comfortable in. The acoustics are excellent for both speakers and (unsurprisingly) orchestras, and the sightlines are all terrific.
It is a joy to see a show of any kind of Symphony Hall.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/15/2011
Thanks John! More » -
Review from Anya S.
12/2/2010
Acoustics are great.
Performances are top notch.
PEOPLE DRESS UP, I feel like Im back at home in the old country, where you dress nice when you go to the theater.
Amazing.
They offer students discounts, so you have no excuses even if you are broke like me.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/5/2011
Thanks Anya! Yes, students can purchase the College Card… More » -
Review from Jane M.
Wakefield, RI
12/19/2011
We went to the Children's Holiday Pops performance yesterday, 12/18/11. It was wonderful! The orchestra, chorus & of course Symphony Hall itself put everyone's spirit on high. I especially loved "Carol of the Drum", "The Twelve Days of Christmas", the reading (by actor Jeremiah Kissel) & music to "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" & the children's sing-along. The best Santa ever visited & at the end of the show, children lined up to see him. It was so nice to see people dressed up & so many happy, engaged children. I must say that Keith Lockhart is not only a conductor extrordinaire, but also a fun entertainer. I feel gooood.... :)
Pros: Amazing music & acousitics take you away
Cons: Very expensive (for us) ~ $103/ seats on the floor (Unfortunately, it was the only place that the 6 of us could sit together given that we looked for tickets late.)Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/4/2012
Thanks Jane! More » -
Review from Ian H.
La Crescenta-Montrose, CA
7/10/2011
This is a review of the Boston Pops Independence Day concert, by the Charles River rather than Symphony Hall. On the plus side some classic orchestral pieces, especially the 1812 Overture, were good, as were the guest singers. On the other hand many of the patriotic tunes were squeezed into medleys that were kinda hard to get swept up in.
And organization of tickets was weak, at least for the July 3rd rehearsal that we went to. They're given out on a first-come first-served basis, in the form of wrist bands, but their distribution was delayed for 90 mins. on top of the time we already waited, leaving many people standing in the rain wondering if there would be time catch some dinner before the concert.
It was free and I appreciate that, but the program and venue wasn't well organized. My recommendation is to take in the July 4th fireworks from somewhere else and see the Pops in their natural habitat, Symphony Hall, because they don't travel too well. -
Review from Lorrie M.
11/12/2010 1 Check-in Here
As you can probably tell, this is one heck of a place. It is stunning from the inside and beautifully reserved from the outside. Just the architecture and design alone warrants a 5-star review but it's what goes on inside that really takes the cake.
The interior is gorgeously decorated and the balcony has rich, deep, velvety cloth and tassels hanging from the ceiling. The sound was extraordinarily good most likely as this place was made to be a symphony hall thus the sound works on stage is perfectly suited for a symphony concert.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra put on a brilliant show of classical music (unfortunately, I did not know or was familiar with the artists that were being played) which was both moving and powerful. I love how music can extrude many different emotions even in the same set. I really enjoyed the concert here, the coat check is easy to use and the bathrooms are nice as well.
If you have a chance to catch a concert here, I would definitely not pass it up!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 11/15/2010
Thanks very much for this great review, Lorrie! More » -
Review from J. G.
Concord, MA
10/22/2011
After looking at the BSO website I noticed that indeed they have half price seats if you're under 40..fabulous. Now what about seniors in MA on a fixed budget? When I inquired I was told that even though there are a large percentage of people over sixty in MA on a fixed income..too bad! They sell most tickets to the small percentage of older wealthy residents and have no interest in giving a discount to people who have worked a lifetime and would now in the winter of their lives like to enjoy the symphony. Reeks of ageism and discrimination to me but I'm no lawyer. Just a teacher who worked thirty years and am not welcome at the BSO unless I can pay the big bucks. There has got to be a way for them to keep their wealthy base and give seniors a break...we like music too! I suggest they call the MFA or any local theater and get on board!
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 12/7/2011
J. G. Sorry that you felt unwelcome at the Symphony! The… More » -
Review from Bryce G.
Boston, MA
10/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing hall for an amazing symphony orchestra. The BSO and the gorgeous hall just keeps bringing me back for more.
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 12/7/2011
One of the greatest in the world! Thanks Bryce. More » -
Review from Tanya S.
Cambridge, MA
2/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Such a beautiful space and the sound is not bad from many locations (I've been all over due to random student tickets). The only location I hate are the side balconies - your knees are right near the person's head and it starts to feel pretty cramped/awkward and the sound is not as great.
The College Card program is fantastic - now you can even get your free tickets the same week of the performance, not just the morning of.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/28/2011
Thanks very much, Tanya! For more info on the College Card… More » -
Review from Sebastian W.
Boston, MA
5/20/2011
The home of the BSO and Boston Pops, Symphony Hall is an irreplaceable New England landmark that offers a wide range of classical, jazz, folk, country, and popular music events. The ticket prices are very reasonable and well worth it. Each year when the biggest performing artists make a trip to "Bean-town" they all stop at Symphony Hall. Often these artists are more than happy to take pictures with fans and sign autographs, so be sure to stick around after the concerts.
As far as the acoustics go, you cannot get any better than Boston's Symphony Hall. Also, the decor is impressive to say the least.
I would recommend a concert here to anyone and everyone, young and old. It is important to support such organizations with your patronage. The staff and musicians are always appreciative and make each trip an absolute pleasure.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 5/21/2011
Thanks very much Sebastian! More » -
Review from Kim K.
3/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing interior, austere, perfect acoustics, not a bad seat in the place.
I've seen concerts, speaking engagements, and, of course, the BSO here - all wonderful events. Just beautiful!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/15/2011
Thanks very much, Kim! More » -
Review from Kyle S.
Jamaica Plain, MA
9/14/2010
I can rate Symphony Hall?!??! I'm so tempted to go on and on about how awesome it is to have one of America's greatest halls AND the Boston Symphony, but I'll try to keep it to a couple pages ;-)
The only problem that could possibly be had with Symphony Hall is the disrespectful audience member who decides that clearing the phlegm in their throat is best done during the softest sweetest parts of a major work. ugh.
One of my favorite memories was the beginning of Barber's Adagio for Strings, so soft you could hear a spider fart... and mr. and mrs. fat, old and impatient on the right can't stop yapping about god knows what. Now, I've been here for 2 yrs so maybe it's just that Boston attitude setting in, but I told them quite simply, to SHUT UP, please...
How does it feel to be schooled on respect by someone a third your age? :-)
See you soon Symphony Hall! It's been a loooong summer, can't wait to hear you again.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 9/15/2010
Thanks for this great review, Kyle! More » -
Review from Josh G.
Somerville, MA
3/23/2009 ROTD 2/26/2010
If you are going to see orchestral music, the only place where it might sound better is in the composer's head. And only if he has a big, sonorous noggin. Otherwise you'd still be better of at Symphony Hall.
From the hard wooden seats to the statues in the recesses along the walls, everything in this room except your fat ass is designed to create the perfect acoustics for an orchestra to play in. This is why you don't see many electrified groups play here aside from the odd "edgy" Pops concert.
Skip the Pops and see a proper performance by the BSO. Barring a cool collaboration, the Pops is for the very young and the very old. Basically, if you have complete control of your bladder, you are not their demographic.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 1/21/2011
Hilarious review, thanks Josh! :) More » -
Review from Heather G.
Boston, MA
2/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I went to see Joshua Bell here the other night and was taken aback by the beauty of this very old hall. Initially, I had expected a venue more like the Boston Opera House, so I was disappointed when I walked in and saw the disheveled lines, people collecting around the drafty foyer, and people in jeans. However, after walking into the hall, my mind changed immediately.
Yes, this place is huge, a bit less personal, and a bit draftier than I was hoping for the evening, but a simple sweep of the eyes at balcony-level made me revisit my opinion.
If you're going in the winter months, bring a sweater, as it's a bit drafty. But the seats are almost all stellar, the sound is great, and the feel of the room is wonderful.
Also, a word of caution - for a sold-out show, the line to the ladies room during intermission becomes insane and moves at a snail's pace. Skip that second cup of coffee.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/17/2011
Thanks for the review, Heather! More » -
Review from Bora K.
5/8/2007
C'mon, you have to go! It's the Boston Symphony Orchestra for crying out loud! If not for the music (although that is really the ONLY reason you should go) then go for the fact that you can't stop by Boston without going there. It's that important.
It is absolutely breathtaking inside and all shows were marvelous. I loved it every time I went especially during the summer when the Boston Pops Orchestra was playing.
Dress up and indulge in a lovely evening. Go to the Boston Symphony Orchestra-Listed in: So you're going to Boston...
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 4/21/2011
Thanks Bora! More » -
Review from Erica C.
New York, NY
1/16/2008
The greatest classical music hall in America. Period. And the BSO itself - so exquisite, it makes me wanna cry. Perfectly in tandem, and with a musicianship that rivals (bests?!) the Vienna Phil's. Under James Levine, the orchestra's sound literally glows.
And the Symphony Hall itself - the acoustics blew me away. I'm a Carnegie Hall fan, and the Disney Hall in LA ain't half bad either, but the Symphony Hall is simply unlike anything else. It's very existence is virtually a miracle. The music becomes music - not the product of dozens of instruments on a stage. And the BSO knows how to utilize every reverberation in the space. Some notes hang, tantalizing, in the air, others wisp away into nothingness at once, others burn with energy. It's a mind-blowing, breath-taking experience, a MUST for any classical fan to hear the BSO at this Symphony Hall.
I mean, I live in New York and I bought a subscription to the BSO. That's how good it is.Listed in: Classical Music Joints
Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 3/16/2011
Wow, Erica! What a fantastic review! Thank you! More » -
Review from Amada W.
Boston, MA
4/13/2011
Boston Symphony Hall is great. I got a pair of free tickets from someone I work with and took my boyfriend and it was an enjoyable experience. It's one of those things you just have to do if you live in Boston, and something you should want to do if you are visiting and have an appreciation for beautiful music.
You take the Green line to get there and get off at the aptly name Symphony stop which literally drops you off at the steps, which works out. You get in fast, bathrooms are clean, everyone working there is nice. It is a gorgeous historical building and is truly breath taking once you are inside.
My boyfriend met me after he got off of work by taking the commuter rail in from Lowell. He is a plumber and since we didn't know what their policy is with bringing bags in, he just brought a simple, but nice, flannel to put on over his work shirt and wore some gray slacks. You won't get a clear answer about what to wear to something like this--some people go all out and are dressed extremely fancy while others are casual. Once you get in there and are seated no one will be looking at you anyway and people didn't seem to frown upon his attire, which was nice. So dress comfortable (unless there is a set dress code, check the website beforehand just in case because certain shows do have them). It is pretty warm in there too so dress in layers if you can. It was freezing outside and snowing the night we went but warm and cozy inside so be ready to acclimate if you have to.
That's about it! Something everyone should do atleast once! And afterwards there are plenty of places to get a bite to eat.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 4/14/2011
Thanks for this great review, Amada! More » -
Review from Trish F.
Boston, MA
5/5/2008
The Mumblings of the Old by Trish the Dish
I'm uncultured swine and I've never been to the symphony but was very excited to go see Kathy Griffin at Symphony Hall this past weekend. I knew I wasn't going to be lulled into ecstasy by the 2nd cello, but at least I would get to hear Kathy talk about Hollywood's use of ecstasy (and other various recreational drugs). My first stop when I got there was the bathroom, naturally. Nothing too grand, but the lack of trash cans (they roll with the small hole in the sink area) seemed to be a recipe for disaster. Also, the fact that people had to choose which side to wait in line (there are an even number of stalls separated) caused some ruckus. Apparently, some people do still love to have their hands held when going to the bathroom.
"Uh.. I.. Uh.. I guess.. I'll wait for you outside... oh.. oh gosh.. okay."
I was greeted by a rather curt gentleman at the hall's door who directed me to another guy who was seating in the orchestra. This guy was very nice and even pulled my seat down for me. I felt like I should tip or something. The rows are all connected and seem old school style but fancy. I don't know why, but it reminded me of a church. In Shakespeare. Or something. I sat next to a.. er.. nice.. old couple. Let's call them Edith and Charlie. Edith and Charlie (in my head) have been married for 59 years.
Edith: Ahhh.. onesies tonight?
Me: Muh?
Edith: ONESIES?
Me: Like.. for babies? Does Kathy Griffin have onesies for sale?
Edith: No no.. you're by yourself.
Me: Me? Ahh yess.. I spend a lot of time by myself ::wiggles palm::
::Edith opens old people candies and throws the wrappers on the floor::
Cue Justin Timberlake music
::Edith and Charlie dance in their seat like it's their regular jam::
The hall was impressive. I'm not a huge fan of the balcony 'U' seating because the people in the back balcony must not have a very good view for something like this, even though the acoustics for music must be nice. The million exits in the upper balconies can be somewhat distracting.. not because of the shiny red lights that help people get out in times of trouble, but because people kept leaving during the performance and there was that random-out-of-the-corner-of-my-eye little light gleam every couple minutes. Also.. the statues and their back lighting are a little creepy. Methinks my contacts were playing tricks on me.
::Edith snoring... Charlie hits her.. Edith listens to Kathy talk about Britney/Jamie Lynn Spears::
Edith: ...::yells out::.. WHO CARES?
::Charlie hits her shoulder::
Edith: What? What? Seriously WHO CARES!!!
Charlie: Do you want to go then?
Edith: No.
::Edith falls asleep again for 5 minutes but wakes up to me laughing at dirty talk and laughs::
Edith: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA.. Hoohahs. ::glares at me for laughing so hard and waking her up::
The seats are pretty comfortable.. although they can have a weird Alien effect to them. They don't have hard backs, so when people lean on them.. you.. well I.. got surprised. I thought my chair was possessed. So note.. don't lean on the chair in front of you. There's really no need since there is ample foot and chair room.
:: Kathy talks about Barbara Walters and Astroglide::
Edith: What's Astroglide?
Charlie: Ahhh.. Ahhh don't know. Let's take a picture of her with my camera phone.
Edith: Let me do it. You have shaky hands. ::takes camera and covers the lens with her finger:: I can't see.. your camera is BROKEN!
Charlie: Gimme that.. it's not broken.. see look! Wait.. wait.. okay.. now look.. ahh.. no.. okay.. now look!
::Edith falls asleep::
Overall a lovely space. I look forward to coming back for an actual symphony.. and perhaps not sitting next to season ticket holders who have no idea why they're there. Although they did leave about 45 minutes in so I got to stretch out even more and lean on the chair next to me.
*Oh and Melissa reminded me of the funniest/creepiest part of the night for Kathy fans. Kathy had been hanging out with Adnan Ghalib, the paparazzi guy who was dating BritBrit at one point.. and when Kathy had jokingly asked how much her photos were worth.. he said.. Well you know.. don't be down on yourself.. they're worth something. They'll be worth even more.. if you die tomorrow.
I'm scared for her! :/ -
Review from Charoline D.
Greenwich, CT
11/4/2007
While for whatever reason in the 6 years I've been living in the greater Boston area and beyond, I've never once seen the POPS or had an occasion to head to the symphony. But fortunately for me, I received tickets to hear David Sedaris read his diary and excerpts from his new book (set to be released in June '08).
Parking situation is pretty typical, if you can't find any on Mass Ave, you're going to have to settle for a garage near Huntington or back up by Dalton. I ended up paying $19 to save myself the pain of walking in heels for too many blocks. We arrived a bit late unfortunately, such is life, and had jump seats in the left balcony. We were led to our seats by two ushers, now that's service....or maybe just security. Jump seats are directly against the back wall and a little too close for comfort, but are a good value if you're looking to be close to the stage. The sound was excellent, the atmosphere was less appealing than I had expected. I had anticipated something a little more ornate perhaps, or something close to The Opera House, but nay. It's pretty simple, and with that I was a bit disappointed. -
Review from Caitlyn L.
Boston, MA
3/14/2008
Ahh, perfection. My high school band conductor (yes, I was a band geek, though it was actually a semi-cool thing to do at my high school) used to rave about Symphony Hall's perfect acoustics and - true to high school form - we all only half paid attention until we actually had the chance to play at Symphony Hall. It was absolutely amazing; we could hear every single person on stage more distinctly than I'd ever thought possible.
Aside from all that musician geekiness, I've seen the BSO here a couple times and it's a really great venue, from the acoustics to the Greek revival sculptures to the general atmosphere. The balcony seats actually are comfortable (I got some good seats from work) and have a great view of the stage. It's expensive, but worth the money as a once in a while treat.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/24/2011
Thanks very much, Caitlyn! More » -
Review from Jessi E.
Brookline, MA
11/13/2007
Having graduated from the music school around the corner from Symphony Hall, I have experienced the BSO at the best and worst times. I don't need to mention the caliber of playing or the acoustics which have already been noted - but they're extraordinary!
Things to AVOID at Symphony Hall:
(1) FLU SEASON. I cannot stress this enough. It's one thing for a sparse cough here and there between movements. But the number of disruptive whopping coughs that echo through the hall after ol' Jimmy Levine has finally cut off the LONGEST fermata ever is just plain rude. Plus, it's dangerous. I swear I caught bronchitis once between movements.
Then there's the people who open those individually wrapped throat losanges which must be wrapped in a combination of cellophane and bubble wrap. A few years back I saw a woman in the balcony coughing who quickly popped a throat losange in an attempt to be less obnoxious. She tried to hold in a cough and ended up spitting the losange off the balcony onto the Orchestra floor seats! The symphony can be a dangerous place.
(2) DON'T BE THAT GUY /GIRL. Please, please, PLEASE turn off your cell phones. No, that doesn't mean just on vibrate. Someone WILL call you during the quietest part of the piece. Just so you know how crazy I am about this - I silence my phone, turn it off, AND take out the battery. If my phone rings it's a miracle by Christ worthy of interruption!
(2a) Old people, I know you take 10 pills every hour on the hour but please turn off your watch alarms too!
(3) I realize these are more etiquette-related, but it needs to be said: Don't hold things in your lap if you're prone to dropping things. Don't leave 10 minutes before the end so you can be the first out of the parking lot. Don't whisper to your date to try and impress them with your symphonic knowledge - you're actually SCREAMING. And I hate to say it, but don't come to the concert if you are nearing death. Yes, I said it. It's TOTALLY depressing when someone has a stroke in the audience (one less classical music enthusiast) especially during Mozart's Jupiter Symphony or something equally happy and energetic. Also, general rule of thumb - never be the first person to clap. If you are, 9 times out of 10 it's probably because it's not the appropriate time to applaud.
(4) Go hear the actual BSO, not the Boston Pops, or the Pops Esplanade (which isn't even BSO members for the most part). The Pops is how they make their money, yes. It's sad though, the number of people who would rather hear "Jingle Bells" then Beethoven, Brahms, Bruckner, or Bach just to name a few B's. Classical music was the pop music of yesterday. Take a fun history lesson and enjoy what music is rarely conceived in it's ingeniousness today.
P.S. If you want a real treat, check out the BSO during the summer months at Tanglewood in Lenox, MA. It's not a bad drive and the perfectly manicured grounds provide a beautiful landscape to listen to great music while picnicking and drinking wine! -
Review from Chris B.
Boston, MA
2/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm a fan. Received free tickets from work, and had a blast dressing up a bit and listening to classical music. Some notes:
1) Very funny balconies. Surprisingly narrow, probably because there are no columns supporting their weight -- so while this is great for sight-lines, there are very few seats! Chairs are also a little weird -- basically folding chairs with some leather padding. Not exactly super comfortable.
2) Great acoustics (obviously) -- sitting in the balcony afforded a wonderful experience not at all diminished by the distance.
3) Crazy old school interior -- I've been to the San Francisco Opera House which is "classical" but new... in contrast, Boston's hall is "classical" but old -- antique, really. Completely different take on the same thing.
4) A glass of unknown wine was pretty expensive (was it $8?) that we only really could gulp part down -- the intermission was pretty short. But a bottled mini Pelligrino was only $3, which felt like a pretty good value. So mixed bag on the drinks. =D [Yes, this is quibbling.]
All in all, the experience was great. The particular event we saw had Sibelius (*really* outstanding) along with a brand new modern piece (composer in the audience -- first time it was debuting) that I didn't enjoy. Turns out the old guns really can still out shoot any of the young bucks. Keep it up, Sibelius!Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 2/28/2011
Thanks very much, Chris! Those narrow balconies are… More » -
Review from george k.
Dracut, MA
9/4/2010
Shame on me for not visiting more often since I love classical music but..
Life is very demanding and we are always presented with new choices.
Still it's very important to support the true a tried forms of art, especially for institutions like the symphony.
Every time I visit I get inspired and renew my love for classical.Comment from Matt H. of Symphony Hall 9/15/2010
Hope to see you at the Hall soon, George. Thanks again! More »
