Monday, March 3, 2025

Heinz Hall + Pittsburgh Symphony









This past weekend, we headed downtown for dinner and a show! This past fall, I bought a subscription to our local Pittsburgh Symphony and it was indeed one of the best things I've done! My husband and I have enjoyed going together. We've seen quite a few shows already and have one more in our subscription to look forward to, and then I look forward to renewing it again for more shows! 

This weekend, the Pops programming was focused on Pixar, where they played a bunch of different scores from all of the Pixar movies. Seeing the musicians transition quickly from one style to the next was fantastic and showcased the symphony's range and talent. For example, The Incredibles was jazzy and brass heavy, UP has a distinct sound, and Nemo is strings heavy. Nemo Egg is one of my favorite scores (from Finding Nemo) and it was so cool to see it played live. You'll have to listen to that particular song, but the song is so full, and the entire symphony playing it made it sound even fuller and better. It sounded so good I almost shed a tear! The concert felt like sitting in on a soundtrack recording for a movie.

I have nothing but fabulous things to say about the Pittsburgh Symphony. Knowing we have such talent here makes me proud to be a Pittsburgher. Their programming is diverse, and there is something for every audience, from children to avid classical music fans, and even people who may think they don't care for the symphony. Plus, Heinz Hall is a crown jewel! It's so stunning. Each time I visit, I always notice something new. The marble, the aged copper 'awnings', the columns, the mouldings and trim are all spectacular and it's true that they just don't make 'em like this anymore! 

I'd be first in line at Yo Yo Ma this summer, but the show falls on my husband's birthday, and he is not an avid cellist fan so I'll give him a pass. Someday! I know they've done a John Williams tribute before, but I'd love for them to do that again!!! John Williams is one of my favorite contemporary movie composers. Thinking far ahead, I am SO excited that they are doing Appalachian Spring in 2026. I will definitely be at that show! If you go on the first Friday of a show, they usually do a chat after the show with the conductor. I love that. 

We always make a night out of it by grabbing a delicious dinner beforehand. This weekend, we chose Meat and Potatoes. I hadn't been in many years, and it was just as good as always! We ordered tuna tartare and steak frites. 

My only gripe about going to the Symphony is that growing up, I was taught that you dress up for a show like the symphony or a musical or play. I look forward to getting dressed for events like these. I know the world has become extraordinarily casual, but it always shocks me to go to the symphony and see many people in sweatpants. It's likely worse in Pittsburgh as our city has always been known to wear things like Steelers jerseys to a May wedding. I have no control over how others dress and quite frankly, it's none of my business; everyone is entitled to dress however they please. I also think a lack of dress code at the symphony makes it seem less intimidating and more welcoming, which is good. I understand not everyone likes dressing up. In fact, I may be in the minority who prefer to dress up! Me complaining does nothing, but I know many of you feel similarly! 

I wore this fun black dress with feathered sleeves. It's simple and classic but the sleeves make it fun and unique. It comes in many colors and runs true to size. It's a great length for those on the taller side. I'm 5'6" and feel it's long enough considering it is a 'mini' dress! Those a few inches taller than me could wear this without it being too short.  The code YOURULE should work on this for 20% off! I was likely the most dressed up person there, but I genuinely do not care!

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