There is no official dress code, but you'll see guests wearing everything from jeans to cocktail dresses. Most guests opt for business attire or business casual. Some people enjoy dressing up and making a special night of it, others prefer to dress more laid back. Generally, the only tuxes you'll see are on stage.
Do orchestras have dress codes?
One reason orchestra managements give when asked why a dress code is necessary is that they want their musicians to present a uniform appearance to the audience. It's been customary to define that 'uniform appearance' to mean full formal dress: white tie and tails for men, and long black gowns or pantsuits for women.
What are the requirements for a symphony?
- an opening sonata or allegro.
- a slow movement, such as andante.
- a minuet or scherzo with trio.
- an allegro, rondo, or sonata.
Why are orchestras so formal?
The tradition of orchestra musicians wearing formal clothes started centuries ago, when they performed as servants in royal houses. Today, it's more about dressing similarly, so that their clothes don't distract from the music.