How to Attend Wichita Early Music Society

The Wichita Early Music Society is a cherished cultural institution dedicated to the preservation, performance, and education of music from the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Founded in the heart of Kansas, this nonprofit organization brings together musicians, scholars, and enthusiasts who share a passion for historically informed performance practices. Attending a Wichita Early Music Society event is more than just enjoying a concertits an immersive journey into the sonic world of centuries past, where instruments like the lute, viola da gamba, and harpsichord breathe life into compositions that have shaped Western musical tradition.

For newcomers, the prospect of attending may seem intimidating. What should you wear? Do you need to understand Latin or Renaissance notation? Will you feel out of place if youre not a music scholar? The good news is: no prior expertise is required. The Wichita Early Music Society welcomes all who are curious, open-minded, and eager to experience the beauty of early music. This guide will walk you through everything you need to knowfrom finding events and purchasing tickets to understanding the context of the performances and maximizing your experience. Whether youre a local resident or visiting from out of town, this tutorial will empower you to attend with confidence and appreciation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Attending a Wichita Early Music Society event is a straightforward process, but attention to detail ensures a seamless and enriching experience. Follow these steps carefully to plan your visit from start to finish.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

The first and most critical step is navigating to the Wichita Early Music Societys official website. This is your primary source for accurate, up-to-date information on upcoming performances, venue details, ticket availability, and educational programming. Avoid third-party sites or social media pages that may not reflect current schedules. The official site typically includes a calendar view, artist bios, program notes, and historical context for each concert.

Look for a clearly labeled Events or Concert Series tab. Most seasons are divided into thematic programssuch as Sacred Music of the Renaissance or Baroque Chamber Ensembleseach with multiple performances spread across several months. Bookmark the site and check it monthly, as new events are often added with short notice.

Step 2: Review the Season Schedule

Once on the website, examine the full season schedule. Events are typically held between September and May, with the heaviest concentration in the fall and spring. Most concerts occur on weekend afternoons or weekday evenings, often at historic churches, university auditoriums, or intimate performance halls around Wichita.

Pay attention to the date, time, and location of each event. Some venues require parking validation or have limited seating. Note whether the event is part of a subscription series or open to individual ticket buyers. Subscription packages often offer discounted pricing and priority seating, making them ideal for regular attendees.

Step 3: Choose Your Ticket Type

Wichita Early Music Society offers several ticket options:

• Single Concert Tickets: Ideal for first-time attendees or those who prefer flexibility. Prices typically range from $20 to $35 for adults.
• Season Subscriptions: Purchase tickets to all or most concerts in a season at a reduced rate. Subscribers often receive a printed program booklet and invitations to exclusive pre-concert talks.
• Student and Senior Discounts: Valid identification may be required. Discounts are usually 50% off regular pricing.
• Free Admission Events: Occasionally, the Society hosts outreach concerts at public libraries or community centers that are open to all without charge.

When selecting your ticket, consider the venues capacity. Smaller halls may sell out weeks in advance, especially for popular ensembles or holiday-themed programs. Dont wait until the last minute.

Step 4: Purchase Your Tickets

Tickets can be purchased securely through the Societys website using a credit or debit card. The checkout process is simple and typically includes an option to print your ticket at home or receive a digital ticket via email. Some events may also allow ticket purchases by phonecheck the website for a dedicated contact number.

After purchasing, youll receive a confirmation email. Save this email, as it contains your ticket barcode, seating information, and any special instructions (e.g., Enter through the north door, or Bring your own seating for outdoor concerts). If you dont receive confirmation within 24 hours, contact the Society directly using the email address listed on their Contact page.

Step 5: Prepare for the Venue

Each venue has unique characteristics. Many concerts are held in historic churches with stone floors, high ceilings, and limited climate control. Dress in layers, especially during winter months. Bring a light jacket or shawleven if its warm outside, the interior of a stone church can be cool.

Arrive at least 20 minutes before the start time. Early arrival ensures you can find parking, locate your seat, and review the program booklet (often distributed at the entrance). Latecomers may be asked to wait until a natural pause in the performance to enter, to avoid disrupting the musicians.

Many venues are not wheelchair accessible due to their historic architecture. If you require accessibility accommodations, contact the Society in advance. They work diligently to provide alternative seating or assistive listening devices where possible.

Step 6: Understand the Performance Format

Early music concerts differ from modern symphony performances in structure and etiquette. Most events last between 75 and 90 minutes, with no intermission. The program is often presented as a continuous narrative, with pieces flowing from one to another based on theme, composer, or historical period.

Program notes are provided free of charge. Read them before the concert begins. They explain the origins of each piece, the instruments being used, and the cultural context. For example, you might learn that a particular madrigal was composed for a noble wedding in 16th-century Italy, or that the viola da gamba was considered a courtly instrument in 17th-century France.

Unlike classical concerts where applause follows every movement, early music performances often encourage applause only at the end of a complete set or after a full piece. Watch the performers or other audience members for cues. If in doubt, wait until the musicians lower their instruments or bow.

Step 7: Engage with the Experience

Dont just listenobserve. Notice the craftsmanship of the instruments. The gut strings of a baroque violin produce a warmer, more intimate tone than modern steel strings. The harpsichords plucked mechanism creates a bright, percussive sound unlike the sustained resonance of a piano.

Pay attention to the performers gestures. Early music musicians often improvise ornaments, adjust tempos for expressive effect, and communicate non-verbally with one another. These are not mistakesthey are intentional stylistic choices rooted in historical practice.

If the concert includes vocal music, listen for the use of period pronunciation. Singers may perform Latin, French, or Italian texts with the phonetic rules of the time, which can sound unfamiliar to modern ears. This authenticity is part of what makes the experience so compelling.

Step 8: Stay After the Performance

Many Wichita Early Music Society events conclude with a brief Q&A or meet-and-greet with the musicians. This is a rare opportunity to ask questions about the instruments, the repertoire, or the research behind the performance. Dont hesitate to introduce yourself. Musicians are often passionate educators and delighted to share their knowledge.

Some venues also host light refreshmentswine, cheese, or teaserved in the lobby. This is an excellent time to connect with other attendees. Conversations often turn to favorite pieces, historical trivia, or recommendations for future concerts.

Step 9: Reflect and Share

After the concert, take a few moments to reflect. What moved you? Was it the haunting harmony of a polyphonic motet? The rhythmic drive of a French dance suite? Write down your thoughts or share them with a friend. Consider leaving a review on the Societys website or social media pages. Your feedback helps sustain the organization and encourages others to attend.

Many attendees become regulars after their first visit. If you enjoyed the experience, consider joining as a member. Membership often includes advance notice of events, discounts on merchandise, and invitations to private rehearsals or workshops.

Best Practices

Attending early music concerts is a unique blend of cultural appreciation and sensory immersion. To make the most of each experience, adopt these best practices.

Arrive Early, Leave With Purpose

Arriving early isnt just about securing a good seatits about setting the right mindset. Spend five minutes in the venue before the lights dim. Look at the architecture, read the plaque commemorating the buildings history, and let the atmosphere settle around you. Early music is deeply connected to place and time. The space itself is part of the performance.

After the concert, dont rush out. Take your time gathering your belongings. Many of the most meaningful conversations happen in the quiet moments after the final note fades. If youre driving, give yourself extra time to navigate parking and traffic, especially in older neighborhoods where street signs may be unclear.

Dress for the Occasion, Not the Weather

Theres no strict dress code, but most attendees choose attire that reflects the formality of the occasion. Business casualslacks and a blouse, a button-down shirt and sweateris common. Avoid overly casual clothing like athletic wear, flip-flops, or hats that obstruct the view of others.

Remember: youre not attending a rock concert or a movie. Youre stepping into a tradition that values reverence, focus, and aesthetic harmony. Your clothing should honor that spirit without being stiff or pretentious. Comfort and dignity go hand in hand.

Minimize Distractions

Turn off your phone or switch it to silent mode before the concert begins. Even the glow of a screen can be distracting in a dimly lit hall. Avoid checking messages during the performanceeven a quick glance breaks the immersive atmosphere.

Refrain from talking, whispering, or rustling wrappers. Early music is often performed at delicate volumes. A single cough or squeak of a chair can be heard clearly. If you need to cough, cover your mouth and, if possible, wait for a pause in the music. Many venues provide complimentary cough drops at the entrance.

Learn the Basics Before You Go

You dont need a music degree to enjoy early music, but a little background knowledge enhances your experience. Spend 10 minutes before the concert reading the program notes. Familiarize yourself with the names of the composers and the instruments being played. A quick online search for Baroque ornamentation or Renaissance polyphony will yield accessible explanations.

Consider listening to a short recording of one of the pieces on the program. YouTube and Spotify have curated playlists of early music. Hearing the melody in advance allows you to recognize its development during the live performance.

Respect the Instruments

Many of the instruments used in early music are centuries old or meticulously crafted replicas. They are fragile, expensive, and irreplaceable. Never touch an instrument unless invited. If youre lucky enough to attend a pre-concert demonstration or workshop, listen closely to how the musicians handle their instruments. Their care is a testament to their dedication.

Support the Artisans

Wichita Early Music Society relies on ticket sales, donations, and merchandise purchases to fund its mission. After the concert, browse the table where programs, CDs, and handmade reproductions of historical instruments are sold. Purchasing a CD of the ensembles performance allows you to relive the experience at home and supports the artists directly.

Consider making a small donation at the door or signing up for a recurring contribution. Many members choose to give $5 or $10 per concert as a way of sustaining the organizations educational outreach.

Bring a Notebook or Journal

Many attendees keep a small journal to record their impressions. Note which pieces moved you, which instruments fascinated you, and any questions that arose. Over time, this becomes a personal archive of your musical journey. You might even begin to notice patternsperhaps youre drawn to Spanish Renaissance guitar music or Italian cantatas. Your journal becomes a map of your evolving taste.

Invite Others

Early music is best shared. Invite a friend whos never heard a lute played live. Bring a family member who loves history. Even if theyre skeptical, the experience often surprises them. The Society frequently offers group discounts for parties of four or more. Sharing the experience deepens your own appreciation.

Tools and Resources

Maximizing your experience with the Wichita Early Music Society involves more than just attending concerts. A range of tools and resources can deepen your understanding, connect you with the community, and help you explore early music beyond the concert hall.

Official Website and Digital Archive

The Wichita Early Music Society website is your central hub. It includes:

• Full concert schedules with links to program notes
• Biographies of guest artists and resident ensembles
• Historical essays on composers and instruments
• Photo galleries from past performances
• Newsletter signup for event reminders and exclusive content

Many past programs are archived online, allowing you to explore previous seasons. This is invaluable if youre researching a specific composer or instrument. Some archives even include audio clips or video recordings of select performances.

Streaming Platforms for Early Music

Expand your listening beyond live events by exploring curated playlists on:

• Spotify: Search for Early Music Playlist or follow curated channels like Baroque Masters or Renaissance Voices.
• Apple Music: Offers specialized classical playlists with historical context.
• YouTube: Channels like The Early Music Show, Musica Antiqua, and Boston Camerata feature high-quality recordings and documentaries.

Recommended recordings to start with:

• The Art of the Lute by Paul ODette
• Cantiones Sacrae by Michael Praetorius
• The Well-Tempered Clavier (Book I) performed on harpsichord by Trevor Pinnock

Mobile Apps for Music History

Several apps enhance your concert experience:

• Classical Music Companion: Provides composer biographies, historical timelines, and score excerpts.
• Metronome for Early Music: Helps you understand period tempos and rhythmic practices.
• Encyclopaedia Britannica: Offers concise, authoritative entries on Renaissance modes, figured bass, and continuo practice.

Local Libraries and University Resources

The Wichita Public Library and Wichita State Universitys music department maintain collections of early music scores, scholarly journals, and audio recordings. Many are available for free checkout. Ask for assistance from a librarianthey can guide you to rare manuscripts or facsimile editions of 17th-century songbooks.

Some university libraries offer free public access to JSTOR and Project MUSE, where you can read peer-reviewed articles on performance practice, instrument reconstruction, and historical tuning systems.

Workshops and Masterclasses

Wichita Early Music Society occasionally hosts open workshops for the public. These may include:

• Try a Lute sessions where you can handle and pluck a replica instrument
• Singing Madrigals group classes led by vocal coaches
• The Art of Ornamentation demonstrations for instrumentalists

These events are often free or low-cost and require no prior experience. Theyre ideal for curious beginners who want to move from spectator to participant.

Books for the Curious Listener

Deepen your knowledge with these accessible, non-technical books:

• Early Music: A Very Short Introduction by Thomas Forrest Kelly A clear, engaging overview of the movements history.
• The Cambridge Companion to Early Music edited by Anthony Rowland-Jones A comprehensive guide to instruments, notation, and performance.
• Music in the Middle Ages and Renaissance by Harold Gleason and Warren Becker A classic textbook with listening examples.

Many of these books are available as e-books through the library system or as affordable used copies online.

Community Forums and Social Media Groups

Join online communities to connect with fellow enthusiasts:

• Reddits r/earlymusic A vibrant forum for questions, recommendations, and concert reviews.
• Facebook Group: Midwest Early Music Lovers Local members share upcoming events, instrument sales, and rehearsal recordings.
• Instagram: @wichitaearlymusic Behind-the-scenes photos, instrument close-ups, and artist interviews.

These platforms are excellent for asking questions like Whats the difference between a virginal and a spinet? or Where can I hear a sackbut in person?

Real Examples

Real-world experiences illustrate how attendees engage with the Wichita Early Music Society and how the organization transforms casual listeners into lifelong enthusiasts.

Example 1: The First-Time Attendee

Emma, a 28-year-old teacher from Derby, Kansas, attended her first Wichita Early Music Society concert on a whim. She had seen a flyer at her local coffee shop and thought, Why not? The program featured a trio performing English Renaissance songs for voice, lute, and viola da gamba. She didnt know what a viola da gamba was.

She arrived 25 minutes early, picked up her program, and read the notes on John Dowlands Flow My Tears. The description explained that Dowland wrote the piece during a period of deep melancholy after losing his position at the Danish court. As the singer performed, Emma felt the emotion in the melodyhow the descending phrases mirrored the words flow my tears.

After the concert, she lingered to speak with the lutenist, who showed her how the lutes frets were tied with gut string, not fixed like a guitar. Emma bought a CD of the ensembles recording and joined the Societys email list. A year later, she was volunteering to help distribute programs at concerts.

Example 2: The Retiree Who Rediscovered Music

Robert, 72, had not attended a live concert since the 1980s. After his wife passed away, he found himself spending evenings alone. One day, he stumbled upon a Wichita Early Music Society concert listing in the newspaper. It looked peaceful, he said.

He attended a performance of Monteverdis Madrigals of Love and War. The music was unfamiliar, but the emotional arcfrom tender love songs to fierce battle chantsmoved him deeply. He began attending every concert. He started reading the program notes, then bought a book on Baroque harmony. He even took up the recorder, joining a local community ensemble.

I didnt know music could still surprise me at this age, he told the Societys newsletter. Its like finding a new language youve always understood.

Example 3: The Student Scholar

Maria, a graduate student in musicology at Wichita State, attended a concert featuring a rare performance of a 15th-century manuscript from the British Library. The ensemble had spent months reconstructing the notation, which used a now-obsolete system of neumes.

After the concert, Maria approached the director and asked if she could study the manuscript copy they used. The Society connected her with a visiting scholar who was digitizing the source. Maria ended up writing her thesis on the performance practice of English liturgical music in the 1400s, using the Societys concert as primary research.

She now teaches a seminar on early music performance at her university, using recordings from Wichita Early Music Society concerts as teaching tools.

Example 4: The Out-of-Town Visitor

David and Lisa, a couple from Minneapolis, were visiting Wichita for a weekend and wanted to do something culturally enriching. They found the Societys website, booked tickets to a Baroque Christmas concert, and made it their centerpiece.

They arrived early and toured the historic St. Marks Episcopal Church where the concert was held. The program included a setting of In dulci jubilo on recorders and sackbuts, a piece they had never heard before. Afterward, they bought a CD and sent it to their parents as a holiday gift.

We didnt expect to be so moved, Lisa wrote in a guestbook entry. It felt like stepping into a cathedral of time.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to read music to attend a Wichita Early Music Society concert?

No. While some attendees have musical training, the vast majority do not. The program notes provide clear explanations of each piece, its historical background, and the instruments used. You are welcome to simply listen and feel the music.

Are children allowed at concerts?

Yes, children are welcome, especially during family-friendly programs or holiday concerts. However, due to the quiet nature of early music, we recommend children be at least 8 years old and able to sit quietly for 7590 minutes. Some events offer special Early Music for Kids workshops designed for younger audiences.

What if I dont like early music?

Its perfectly normal to be unfamiliar with the sound. Many people initially find early music unfamiliar or sparse compared to modern orchestral works. Give it time. Try attending a concert with a diverse programsome pieces may resonate more than others. You might be surprised by how deeply a 400-year-old melody can move you.

Can I take photos during the concert?

Photography and recording are not permitted during performances, as they can distract performers and other audience members. However, most concerts are followed by a photo opportunity with the musicians in the lobby. Feel free to take pictures there.

Is there parking available at the venues?

Yes. Most venues have designated parking lots or street parking nearby. Some churches offer free parking validation with your ticket stub. Check the event page on the website for specific parking instructions.

Are the concerts accessible for people with hearing impairments?

The Society provides assistive listening devices upon request. Please contact them in advance to arrange for one. Many venues are also equipped with induction loops for hearing aid compatibility.

Can I bring food or drinks into the concert hall?

Food and drinks (other than water in a closed container) are not permitted in the performance space. However, light refreshments are often served in the lobby after the concert.

How can I support the Wichita Early Music Society if I cant attend every concert?

You can support the organization by becoming a member, making a one-time donation, purchasing merchandise, or volunteering. Even sharing their events on social media helps raise awareness and sustain their mission.

What happens if I miss a concert Ive already paid for?

Tickets are non-refundable but may be exchanged for another performance in the same season, subject to availability. Contact the Society as soon as possible if you need to change your plans.

Do they offer educational outreach to schools?

Yes. The Society partners with local public schools to bring early music ensembles into classrooms for interactive workshops. Teachers can request visits through the Education Outreach page on the website.

Conclusion

Attending a Wichita Early Music Society concert is not merely an entertainment choiceit is an act of cultural preservation, intellectual curiosity, and emotional resonance. In a world saturated with digital noise and fast-paced consumption, early music offers a rare space of stillness, craftsmanship, and historical depth. The lutes gentle pluck, the viols mournful cry, the harpsichords crystalline articulationthey are not relics. They are living voices, speaking across centuries.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, youve equipped yourself not just to attend, but to engage deeply with the music and the community that sustains it. Whether you come as a curious newcomer or a seasoned listener, your presence matters. Each ticket purchased, each program read, each quiet moment of listening contributes to the survival of a tradition that might otherwise fade into silence.

The Wichita Early Music Society does not perform for crowds. They perform for souls. And every soul in the audiencewhether they know the name of a composer or simply feel the beautyis part of the musics ongoing story.

So go. Sit. Listen. Let the past speak. And carry its song with you long after the final note has faded.