Welcome!
If you are a first time visitor you may be unsure what to expect at a Cleveland Pops Orchestra concert. Here is a great place to start!
The Cleveland Pops Orchestra delivers orchestral performances unlike any other, which entertain audiences of all ages. The most popular music of stage, film, and television come to life, creating an experience that evokes an emotional reaction and response to the art of music. Rather than classical music such as Beethoven, (although beautiful!) you will hear the music of your life, music you recognize and can tap your feet to or sing a long with! A night with the Pops will be unforgettable!
If you plan to make a night out of your experience check out our Venue Information page for some recommended restaurants for dinner and drinks before the show!
Here are some common questions from our first-timers! Check out our FAQ page for others as well!
What is "pops" music?
“Pops” music includes all the fun music you hear from the big screen, to television shows, to Hollywood and Broadway. The music of your life that you’ll recognize and love! Some past concerts included music from John Williams (composer of music from Star Wars, Jaws, Jurassic Park and more) , music from The Great American Songbook (some songs include Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Chicago, Summertime and more). These are just a couple of concerts from last season!
Where do you play your concerts?
Most of our shows are played at Severance Music Center in Cleveland, OH. We play our annual holiday show at Playhouse Square.
During the summer, we play throughout Northeast Ohio at various locations.
How do I buy tickets and how much can I expect to spend?
Individual tickets can be purchased online by visiting our Concerts and Events page or you can call the Severance Music Center box office at 216-231-1111.
Becoming a subscriber is always the best way to save! Visit our subscription page for more info on how to do so!
What exactly does it mean to be a subscriber?
As a full season subscriber you receive guaranteed seats to all six concerts in our subscription series. You also have access to a host of benefits including invitations to private events, discounted extra tickets to the subscription shows and our holiday performances, ticket exchange privileges and more! Visit our subscription page for more information.
What should I wear to the concert?
There is no official dress code for the Cleveland Pops Orchestra! Some people may be dressed up for a night out, others will be more causal, some people will come from work, and some may even be in jeans. The most important thing is to be comfortable!
Where should I sit and how do I find my seat?
There really isn’t a bad seat in the house! The view is great from anywhere and the venues have great acoustics! Your ticket will be labeled with a section, row and seat number. Our venues will have ushers that will be at every show to assist you in finding your seats when you arrive.
When should I arrive?
We suggest arriving at least 45 minutes prior to the scheduled showtime. Give yourself enough time to find parking, explore Severance Music Center and find your seats.
Where should I park?
There are multiple places to park near Severance Music Center. Check out the info on our Venue page to learn more about parking.
How long do the concerts last?
Our concerts usually run about 2 hours which includes a 15 minute intermission about halfway through the show.
How long is intermission?
Intermission is usually halfway into the concert and lasts about 15 minutes. Take this time for bathroom breaks or grab a snack or drink at the concession stands. A bell will ring shortly before the end of the intermission so that you have time to return to your seat before the performance continues.
When do I clap?
Audience members usually applaud at the beginning of the concert when the lead violinist enters to tune the orchestra, and then applaud again when maestro Carl Topilow comes onstage. The audience will usually applaud at the end of each piece as well. If you aren’t sure, just follow along with the rest of the audience!
What if I still have more questions?
Not to worry! We have a whole FAQ page with more questions and answers. You can also contact the Pops at 216-765-7677 to ask any additional questions you may have.
The most important thing to remember is to have fun with us and enjoy your experience!
The Cleveland Pops Orchestra
23245 Mercantile Road, Suite B
Beachwood, OH 44122
Phone: (216) 765-7677
Fax: (216) 765-1931
E-mail: staff@clevelandpops.com