How to Tell the Difference Between Pops and Symphony Orchestras?

Answer 1

There are two distinct types of orchestras in most large cities. Pops orchestras and symphony orchestras sometimes share a concert hall, and they both offer very different entertainment for their audiences. Both orchestras employ the same types of symphonic instruments, but the focus of the music is usually very different.

Musical Selections

The biggest difference between a pops orchestra and a symphony orchestra is the type of music they perform. Pops orchestras tend to play music that is readily familiar to most audiences. They will play everything from jazz arrangements to rock and roll covers using a traditional symphony setting. Pops orchestras also play traditional Folk Music and recognizable Broadway tunes. Symphony orchestras present a more classic approach to symphonic music. They will often play compositions that were written by the great masters of the symphony, such as Beethoven and Mozart. Symphony orchestras provide a living historic journey through the tradition of symphonic composition.

What the Musicians Wear

Usually the performers are dressed in a way that illustrates the nature of the music they play. Pops orchestras tend to wear tuxedos that are different colors, although they are usually subdued colors to keep from distracting the audience from the music. A pops orchestra may wear brightly colored ties, or more casual suits than a symphony orchestra. The symphony is all about formality. Symphonic musicians always wear black tuxedos with black bow ties. Female symphonic performers wear traditional, modest black dresses that are floor length. The men’s tuxedos usually have short jackets, though the conductor is allowed to wear a coat with long tails.

Price of the Tickets

The prices between pops orchestras and symphony orchestras differ depending on the program’s popularity. Usually pops performances are a little more expensive than symphonic performances because they are more accessible to a wider audience. Some symphonies, however, are famous enough to demand much higher prices for their performances. Both types of orchestras offer special discounts for certain performances to encourage younger patrons. The seats closest to the stage are always the most expensive available, and can be comparable for both types of orchestras. Pops orchestras tend to have famous guest artists, which can drive their cost up much higher than symphonic orchestras.