FAQ
What is a ‘chamber orchestra’?
In the days of Mozart, all orchestras were chamber orchestras
and played in people’s chambers (or living rooms).
But as composers began to write more complex music, and wanted
louder and more diverse sounds, orchestras began using more
musicians and performed in public halls and churches. These
large orchestras became today’s symphony orchestras,
with smaller orchestras keeping the designation ‘chamber
orchestra’ – although we don’t play in
people’s private chambers any more.
How many players do chamber orchestras traditionally have?
Thirteen Strings has thirteen core members, but we’re
often joined by guest artists who add to our numbers. A chamber
orchestra can consist of as few as five or as many as 40 musicians.
What’s the difference between a conductor and a
concertmaster?
The conductor is the person who leads the orchestra, usually
with a baton. This person uses a skilful blend of personality,
knowledge of music and energy to make sure the orchestra plays
as a team.
The concertmaster is the violinist with the highest "rank" in the orchestra, and sits in the chair closest to the conductor's podium. The concertmaster leads the orchestra as it tunes up prior to the concert, and is the orchestra’s representative – such as when the conductor shakes the concertmaster’s hand at the beginning and end of a concert.
What is baroque music, and who are the most popular baroque
composers?
The expression ‘baroque’ derives from the Italian
word ‘barocco’, which means ‘bizarre’,
though we prefer to think of baroque music as ‘exuberant.’ Baroque
music covers the period of 1600 to 1750 and some of the best
known baroque composers are Bach, Handel, Purcell, Vivaldi,
Corelli, Albinoni, Scarlatti and Telemann.
Does Thirteen Strings only play baroque?
Not at all. Our concerts cover the full spectrum of classical
music, from baroque right up to 21st Century composers. Guest
artists and conductors also bring other styles of music to
our concerts so that we provide our concert-going audience
with a truly eclectic musical experience.
Do I have to dress up to attend one of your concerts?
Although our orchestra members will dress formally for concerts,
we really don’t mind what you wear, as long as you
don’t offend other patrons. Perhaps ‘smart casual’ is
a good rule to go by when looking at your concert-going wardrobe.
When is it appropriate to applaud during concerts?
There is a difference of opinion on this and a lot depends
on the work being performed. A general rule is to hold your
applause until the conductor indicates the piece is over
by lowering his or her arms to his side. But if a piece of
music excites you so much you can’t contain yourself,
you may applaud at the end of the section, or movement. Just be aware
that other members of the audience may not share your enthusiasm
and you may be applauding all by yourself.
Young people usually think of classical musical as being
dull and just for staid old fogies. Do you do anything to
introduce young people to classical music?
Thirteen Strings has a program specifically targeted to young
people. The Junior Thirteen Strings allows the students to
work closely with professional musicians, and the highlight
of the junior program is a subscription concert performance with
the juniors sitting beside their professional counterparts. Above
all, we show young people that classical music can be fun by
our own attitudes towards our music and our orchestra. Also, our youth ticket price is only $10.
How do we buy tickets?
You can buy them through a number of outlets in the Ottawa area or by phoning us at (613) 738-7888. You
may also be able to buy tickets at the door if the concert
isn’t entirely sold out.
Where do you hold your concerts?
Almost all of our concerts are held at St. Andrew's Presbyterian
Church at the corner of Wellington & Kent Streets in
Ottawa. Sometimes we are invited to perform at special events
elsewhere, but St. Andrew’s is our home base. Check
the individual concert information for venues.
Is your music recorded?
We have recorded two CDs which can be purchased through our office. Many of our
concerts have been recorded and aired by the CBC.