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Here's some answers to the most commonly asked questions about the Vancouver Symphony's Symphonic Encounters open rehearsals.

What is the admission fee?

Students: $6.50 (incl. HST)
Teachers and Special Needs Assistants: free
Chaperones: One free chaperone per 15 students.
Additional adults: $6.50 (incl. HST)

How do schools register?
There are several ways to register for a Symphonic Encounters open rehearsal:

• Order online (credit card only) – preferred option
• Download the order form online and mail (credit card or cheque payment)
• Complete the order form (mailed to schools in September) and mail it with your deposit or full payment
  Mailing address: Education, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5G1

Telephone reservations will not be accepted.

For what age range are the open rehearsals most appropriate?
Symphonic Encounters is an open rehearsal series, which means that attendees quietly observe the orchestra preparing for a regular season concert. Our suggested age range for this program is from grade 6 up to adults. Please contact the Education Assistant if you require any further advice on this matter.

Will all of the listed repertoire be rehearsed at the open rehearsal?
We cannot guarantee that all of the listed repertoire will be rehearsed during the open rehearsal.

Are there programmes?
Programme notes are available online three weeks in advance of each rehearsal date. There are no programmes available on the day of the rehearsal.

Where are the rehearsals held?
All rehearsals are held at the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Vancouver. Please use the Smithe Street entrance of the building upon arrival.

How early should we arrive?
Doors open 30 minutes before the listed rehearsal time and we request that everyone be seated inside the auditorium 10 minutes before the rehearsal begins. Late comers will not be seated until an appropriate break in the rehearsal.

How long are the rehearsals?
Approximately 2.5 hours. There are usually two pieces rehearsed per session, each one for about 1 hour with a 20-minute break in the middle.

When is payment required?
Full payment is required no later than 2 weeks before the rehearsal. You have the option of paying in full at the time of your registration or sending a non-refundable deposit to hold your preferred date with the balance to arrive 2 weeks prior to the rehearsal.

How are seats assigned?
All seating is in the balcony of the Orpheum Theatre and is assigned on a FIRST PAID IN FULL - BEST SEATING basis. Sending a deposit will hold the date for you and we will assign your seats upon receiving your complete payment.

Refunds?
Refunds are not given except in the event of a cancellation by the VSO.

Can we take pictures of the orchestra?
Sorry, no cameras, video or tape recorders are permitted in the hall.

Other Questions?
If you have a question that is not answered here, please call the Vancouver Symphony's Education Department at 604-684-9100 or contact us by email at education@vancouversymphony.ca

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