Types of Classical Concerts

College Orchestra Concert
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There are several different types of classical concerts that are differentiated based on the number of performers, the instruments used, the genre of music being performed and other factors. Here are the most common types of concerts:

Chamber Orchestra Concerts

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Generally, the orchestra in this type of concert is composed of 40 or fewer musicians who perform with or without a conductor. There are also other types of chamber orchestras based on the number of musicians, the kind of instruments used and the type of music performed.

Children's or Family Concerts

Student orchestra playing on stage
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This type of concert is less formal and shorter than other concerts. It features young instrumentalists belonging to a school, a church or a family of musicians. The number of performers, the types of instruments and the repertoire varies. This type of concert often appeals to the whole family.

Choral Music Concerts

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This type of music is performed by a group of singers known as a choir. The size of the choir varies; it can be as few as three singers or as huge as a hundred singers. For example, Gustav Mahler's ​Symphony No. 8 in E Flat Major earned the title "Symphony of a Thousand" because it requires a large chorus and orchestra. Choirs may sing a capella or accompanied by either a few instruments or a full orchestra. 

Concert Band Concerts

A string quartet
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This type of concert consists of musicians playing percussion and wind instruments, but other types of instruments may be added depending on the music piece. Concert bands are also called wind ensembles, wind bands, symphonic bands, etc. The repertoire varies; from classical to contemporary music. There are also different types of concert bands such as school bands and community bands.

Opera

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An opera combines music with several other elements including costumes, stage design, singing, and dancing. Most operas are sung, with no spoken lines. The music is either performed by a small group of musicians or a full orchestra. Music that has been pre-recorded may also be used. There are several types of opera; such as comic opera, also known as light opera. Comic opera usually tackles light, not so delicate subject matter where the ending often has a happy resolution.

Recitals

A piano recital
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This type of performance highlights the skill of an instrumentalist or a vocalist. Although recitals generally pertains to a solo performer, it can also feature two or more performers playing an instrument together or two or more singers.

Symphony or Philharmonic Orchestra Concerts

A conductor
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A symphony concert features a large number of musicians that are led by a conductor. Each instrument family is represented - brass, woodwinds, percussions, and strings. Sometimes additional performers are added such as a soloist or a chorus. ​