Plan Your Evening
A few details to help you settle in and enjoy the music.
We’re so glad you’re joining us. The Monroe Symphony Orchestra exists to bring world-class live music to northeast Louisiana — and we want your night to be unforgettable.
For 55 years, the MSO has been part of the cultural fabric of this community. Under the direction of Maestro John Mason Hodges — whose gift for helping audiences connect more deeply with the music makes every concert an education as much as a performance — Season 55 promises to be our finest yet.
No dress code. Dress up and make a night of it, or come as you are.
15–20 minutes early to park, find your seat, and pick up a program.
About two hours with one 15–20 minute intermission.
$35 general · $10 student · subscriptions from $155.
Our venues offer accessible seating and entrances. If you have specific needs, contact us ahead of the concert and we will be glad to help.
Out of respect for the musicians and your fellow guests, latecomers are seated at a suitable pause in the program rather than during a performance.
Children who can enjoy a full concert are warmly welcome. Once Upon a Tune is designed especially for young audiences and families.
Please silence phones and save photography for before and after the performance. Applause is most welcome at the close of each work.
West Monroe, Louisiana
Italian Journey — Oct 10, 2026
Pictures at an Exhibition — Apr 24, 2027
Monroe, Louisiana
Silver Bells & Brass — Dec 8, 2026
American Landscapes — Mar 13, 2027
February 19, 2027
Neville H.S. AuditoriumBefore the concert begins you’ll hear musicians warming up on stage. When the concertmaster Marta Szlubowska walks out, the audience applauds; the orchestra tunes to a single pitch. When Maestro Hodges enters, the audience applauds again and the concert begins.
Applaud at the end of each complete work — after the final movement when the conductor lowers the baton. It’s fine to hold applause between movements, but don’t worry if you clap at the wrong time. The musicians are glad you’re there.
No dress code. Some guests dress up and make a full evening of it; others come as they are. Both are equally welcome.
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before the start time to park, pick up a program, and find your seat. Latecomers are held at the door and seated at a suitable pause.
Single tickets ($35 general · $10 student) and season memberships are available online through Zeffy. Visit mymso.org/tickets or purchase at the door subject to availability.
Yes — printed programs are distributed at the door before every concert. They include program notes, artist bios, and sponsor recognition.
Children who can sit quietly through a full concert are warmly welcome. Once Upon a Tune (Feb 19, 2027) is specifically designed for young audiences and families — an ideal first symphony experience.
You’re in exactly the right place. No prior experience required. Maestro Hodges often offers brief remarks from the stage to help audiences connect with the music. Come curious and let the evening take care of the rest.
Single tickets and season memberships are available now.
