I've been attending the RSNO Christmas concert for an astonishing 18 years. This isn't just a holiday event; it's a deeply meaningful and spiritual tradition that combines elements of audience participation and the unique sight of adult trombone players donning penguin costumes. Over the years, they've ventured to experiment with the program, yet always return to the familiar and proven formula. It's as if I'm watching an episode of a beloved TV show, one I know so well that I can anticipate the punchlines along with the actors. During the first half, they screen "The Snowman" while the music plays, and ask a group of 200 children to remain seated on stage for half an hour before singing for a mere three minutes. In the second half, there's more excitement for the choir, more Santa hats, and perhaps a treat for the orchestra as they get to play a couple of serious pieces.

Attendance in Every Form

I've attended this concert in every possible configuration, across different cities, time slots, and concert halls. Each audience has its own distinct character. In Glasgow during the matinee, surprisingly, it can be quite noisy, and the attendees have a tendency to chat right at the crucial moment when the boy and the snowman start their magical run across the garden. (I won't spoil it, but what follows will surely surprise you.) At home in Dundee, there's no matinee; the crowd is a bit older, and there's a stronger sense that people have truly committed to being there. But for me, being part of this community is what makes it truly special. Sitting beside the same faces I recognize but will never speak to, knowing we're all gathered in the darkness to experience and share a communion.

Glasgow Matinee - A Noisy Affair

The Glasgow matinee audience brings a unique energy. Despite the attempts to maintain a certain level of decorum during the "The Snowman" screening and the children's performance, there's an underlying sense of liveliness. People chat and interact, perhaps not realizing the significance of the moment. However, when the music truly takes hold, there's a collective shift in atmosphere. The orchestra's performance is nothing short of remarkable, and the contrast between the pre-performance chatter and the focused musical experience is quite striking. It shows the diverse nature of the audience and how they each bring their own energy to the event.

Dundee Evening - A Committed Crowd

In Dundee, the evening concert has a different feel. The absence of a matinee means the crowd is a bit older and more refined. There's a sense of purpose and commitment among the attendees. They've made a conscious choice to be there, and it shows in their demeanor. The performance by the choir is particularly powerful in this setting, with each note carrying a sense of emotion. The Santa hats add a touch of holiday cheer, but it's the collective spirit of the audience that truly makes the experience unforgettable.

Program Experimentation

The RSNO has been brave in its attempts to experiment with the concert program over the years. While they always come back to the tried and true elements, these experiments have added a new dimension to the event. For example, the inclusion of different musical selections and the creative staging during "The Snowman" screening have kept the audience engaged and on their toes. It shows the orchestra's willingness to evolve while still maintaining the core essence of the Christmas tradition. This balance between tradition and innovation is what makes the RSNO Christmas concert so special. It continues to attract audiences year after year, offering a unique and memorable experience.