Ticket FAQs

Have a question about your tickets or attending a Berkeley Symphony concert? We’ve got answers!


Do you offer children/student discounts?

Yes! We love seeing families at our symphonic series concerts.

For tracking purposes, we ask that parents or teens select the ticket type that best matches their situation.

Kids Club is available at Symphonic Concerts for families with children 12 and under or kids with sensory needs. It’s a welcoming space with toys, coloring pages, and snacks—a great break area during the performance. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

More student discounts!

  • College students with valid ID can purchase tickets to our Symphonic concerts for just $10.

Free children’s tickets and $10 college tickets are available by phone or online at berkeleysymphony.org.


Do you offer senior discounts?

Yes—we offer a 10% discount for seniors who need it. If you’re able to pay full price, we encourage you to do so in support of others who may need the discount. Please call our box office to request this offer at 510-841-2800.


What if I bought tickets and I can’t make it anymore?

We understand—life happens! If you can’t make it to the concert, you are welcome to give your ticket to a friend or neighbor who loves music. Tickets are transferable!

If you let us know at least one day before the concert, we’ll happily:

  • Exchange your ticket for a credit (to use later in the same season), or
  • Convert it into a tax-deductible donation.

Contact the Box Office at (510) 841-2800 or email [email protected].


Can I get a refund?

We’re unable to offer refunds, but see the question above for some great alternatives if you can’t make it.


I’ve misplaced my tickets. What now?

No problem! All digital tickets are emailed to you right after purchase, and again the week of the concert.

You can:

  • Print the attached PDFs,
  • Show the barcode on your phone, or
  • Add tickets to your Apple or Google Wallet.

If you prefer paper tickets and lose them, contact the Box Office. We’ll reprint them and have them waiting at Will Call.


Can I buy tickets at the concert?

Yes! Tickets are available at the Will Call table starting at 2:30 PM on concert day.

NOTE: We recommend arriving early if you’re buying tickets at the door, as lines are longest between 3:30–4:00 PM.

You can always skip the line by purchasing online or by phone ahead of time.


How do I contact the Box Office?

Please note that we have no in-person box office aside from the Will Call table on concert days.

Phone: (510) 841-2800
Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 AM–4 PM
On concert days, phones are answered from 10 AM until 12 PM.

Email: [email protected]

We strongly recommend resolving any ticket issues before arriving at the venue.

At the Performance


Where will the symphonic concerts take place?

Each 26/27 symphonic concert will take place at a different East Bay venue:

Inheritance: Calvin Simmons Theater at Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts
Transformation: Littlefield Concert Hall at Mills College
Remembrance: Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley

Head to “Our Venues” page for more details on each venue, including parking and accessibility information.


What should I wear to the concert?

Whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident!

You’ll see everything from jeans and sweaters to cocktail dresses and button-downs at Berkeley Symphony performances. Some people enjoy dressing up for a night out, while others come straight from work or school. There’s no dress code—just come as you are and enjoy the music.


What about concessions or snacks?

The venue does not sell concessions. Sometimes, community partners sell snacks outside the concert hall—but we can’t always guarantee this.

  • We do offer complimentary tea and water at every performance.
  • Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the sanctuary. Ushers may ask you to discard them upon entry.

Intermission and Post-Concert Delights

All concerts include a 15-minute intermission, as indicated in the printed program.

SYMPHONIC CONCERTS For the 25/26 Season, Symphonic Series post-concert receptions are free and will take place directly after each performance in the church courtyard. Audience members will have the opportunity to mingle with guest conductors, guest artists, and musicians. Food and wine will be provided. Symphonic Series receptions are generously sponsored by Jane Hammond.

CHAMBER CONCERTS After the concert, we encourage you to stick around for our post-concert reception! Chamber Series receptions are free to all attendees and include wine and light snacks.


Are there items I can’t bring?

Yes, for the safety and comfort of all guests, certain items are not permitted inside the venue.


Can I take photos or video?

Before, after and during the intermission, you are welcome to take photo and video to remember your time at the symphony. Tag us on socials @berkeleysymphony!

Due to licensing agreements with the artists and composers, audio and video recording during the performance is strictly prohibited. Thank you for helping us honor the music and protect the integrity of the performance.


Chamber Concerts


Where will they take place?

The Hillside Club – 2286 Cedar Street, Berkeley, CA 94709


Where can I park?

Free street parking is available in the Hillside Club’s neighborhood, though we recommend arriving early to ensure enough time to find a good spot.


Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The club has a ramp on the main entrance, and the restrooms are ADA-compliant. If you have specific accessibility needs, please reach out ahead of time so we can best support your visit.


What should I wear to a performance?

There’s no dress code! Whether you’re in jeans or dress shoes, you’ll fit right in. Most people go for “casual nice” or smart casual, but comfort is key.


Can I bring food or drinks into the venue?

No food or drink is allowed inside the performance space unless otherwise noted for a special event. We encourage you to enjoy refreshments before or after the show.

Intermission and Post-Concert Delights

Most concerts include a 15-minute intermission, as indicated in the printed program. If there’s a shorter program, we will not have an intermission.

After the concert, we encourage you to stick around for our post-concert reception! Chamber concert receptions are free to all attendees and include wine and light snacks.


Is there public transit nearby?

The Hillside club is a 20 minute walk from Downtown Berkeley BART. AC Transit lines such as the 18 and 67 have stops within walking distance of the venue.


When should I arrive?

We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before showtime to find parking, check-in at the door, and settle in. Doors typically open about 30 minutes before the performance.

 


Questions
If you have any questions, please email tickets@berkeleysymphony.org, or call our Box Office at 510-841-2800.

We thank you for your support!