Attending symphony kilted, vest or no?

[McMurdo]

It's interesting that you mention Black Tie, the last time I went near a Symphony Hall was for Scotland the Brave, as it was opening night I went Black Tie and wore my Prince Charlie, there were many Prince Charlie's in the crowd that evening, and some on stage. While waiting after the performance in front the ladies room, an older woman came up to me and thanked me for the show, I did not have the heart to tell her it was not me on stage so I just thanked her.

[auld argonian]

I play the flute and have been a big fan of the late Jean Pierre Rampal for a long time. Ol' JP once said something about dressing for the symphony and while I can't remember the quote verbatim, I'll try to paraphrase...

...basically, it was sorta: Hey! I'm standing up there in tails and you expect to show up in your blue jeans? ...I don't think so! This is a special event so treat it accordingly and dress appropriately.

I always recommend that everyone try to bring to tone back up to where it used to be. These events were a lot more "special" when people held them as events worth dressing up for. Wear your flip-flop to the beach, please. I went to Jersey Boys a couple of months ago and I was literally the only other man wearing a necktie in the theatre that wasn't on the stage.

Put on the dog...formalwear may not be called for but dress as nicely as you feel that you can...vest included. Be the guy that helps to bring the tone up.

Best

AA

[auld argonian]

While waiting after the performance in front the ladies room, an older woman came up to me and thanked me for the show, I did not have the heart to tell her it was not me on stage so I just thanked her.

Hey...at least she thought you were in the performance and didn't think you were an usher!

Best

AA

[Carolina Kiltman]

Definitely the vet and tie. The kilt probably should be the "tank", though. I have no problems with a "casual kilt" but I put it in the category of chino slacks, only one step above blue jeans. Save the gillies (if you have them) for the "black tie" occasions. Wingtips and polished loafers (slip-ons, if you can wear them) or just ordinary polished black oxfords for the shoes.

You dress to honor the occasion (and the artists). Loved the quote from JP. I am an ex-flautist myself, and he is incredible! Bravo!