It’s easy to think the symphony is just for “older folks” or for people who’ve always liked classical music. But the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is something different. Even if you’ve never been to a concert hall before, there are so many reasons why going to a VSO show could totally change how you see live music.
First off, live is a whole other vibe. When the orchestra plays together – all those instruments in one room, the strings, the brass, the percussion – the sound just hits you in a way recordings can’t. You feel the music in your chest, the energy in the hall, the buzz of people around you breathing with the music. That’s something you don’t get from Spotify or YouTube.
Another thing: VSO shows aren’t just serious classical pieces. They do “film music” concerts, themed concerts, and big crowd-pleasers. That means if you like movies, or you like big emotional moments, or you like soundtracks, there’s stuff that’ll pull you in fast. The productions are slick, the lighting, the visuals, the way they use film screens sometimes, all of it makes concerts exciting and not just a formal affair.
Also, it’s good for pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Trying new things, seeing new art, hearing something you’ve never heard – that’s how you grow. Even if you go once and don’t love every piece, you’ll probably find a few you like, maybe discover something unexpected you didn’t know you would care about.
If you like Star Wars, you should know: the VSO is doing Return of the Jedi in Concert at the Orpheum on September 25 & 26, 2025, starting at 7:00pm. Vancouver Civic Theatres
That means you’ll get to watch Return of the Jedi on the big screen, while the VSO plays the full John Williams score live. Imagine hearing those epic themes – the triumphant, emotional, adventurous parts – not from speakers, but live. Every note you’ve heard a million times in the movies will feel new again. You’ll hear the lush strings, the soaring horns, the tension and release of the music as you follow Luke, Leia, Han, and the rest of the crew in that unforgettable duel with Vader, the final battle, and the glory of those moments.
If you’re into Star Wars, doing this live is like stepping into the movie yourself. It’s not just nostalgia; it’s something more immersive. You’ll share the same space and time with the orchestra and everyone else who loves that story.
At the moment, the VSO’s season is pretty packed with shows that are smaller, bigger, classical, crossover, movie-soundtrack type. Vancouver Symphony Orchestra So there’s variety: if you’re not into super-serious classical, there’s likely something more “pop culture” or film-friendly to try. Also, ticket prices often have deals, especially if you’re under 35 or a student. It’s more affordable than you might expect. Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
Even going once starts you off. Live music, shared experience, feelings you don’t always get in day-to-day life. The trust, the hush just before the piece begins, the swell of sound, the applause – all of that makes it special.
So if you’ve never been, put Return of the Jedi in Concert on your radar. And even beyond that, keep an eye on VSO’s calendar. See a show. Feel the music live. You might walk out different than you walked in.
Dan Baltag
dbaltag@my.bcit.ca