Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall | Best Seats for Oregon Symphony & Classical Concerts

Expert Guide to the Best Value Tickets at Portland's Historic Venue

Discover the perfect seats for Oregon Symphony performances featuring Deanna Tham and the "Back To The Future In Concert" event. This detailed guide highlights the best value sections, premium views, and hidden gems in Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall's unique seating layout.

Best Value Tickets (Under $100)

• Upper Balcony F, Row X ($59): Budget-friendly option with surprisingly good acoustics despite higher elevation. Best for listeners prioritizing sound over stage visibility.
• Orchestra D, Row HH ($80): Excellent mid-orchestra position at ground level - perfect balance of price and proximity. Rows GG-JJ offer similar value.
• Balcony B, Row TT ($80): Front balcony seats with direct sightlines to stage. Avoid rows above UU for better headroom.

Sweet Spot Tickets ($90-$135)

• Orchestra A, Row J ($93): Premium center orchestra at discount price. These seats typically sell for 30% more - a rare find.
• Lower Balcony F, Row TT ($104): Elevated but close with perfect downward sight angles. The "Goldilocks zone" for balcony seating.
• Orchestra C, Row D ($97): Side orchestra with minimal obstruction and exceptional string section visibility.

Higher Tier Options ($135-$180)

• Mezzanine A, Row MM ($120): Intimate boxes with best-in-house acoustics. Limited legroom but unmatched audio clarity.
• Lower Balcony B/C/E, Rows R-T ($135-137): Front-center balcony positions with panoramic views. Row T has extra legroom.
• Orchestra A/D, Rows HH-EE ($137-139): Prime orchestra seating behind VIP sections. Watch conductor's expressions clearly.

Premium & Last-Minute Seats ($180+)

• Mezzanine A/F, Rows L-M ($162-169): Front mezzanine boxes with private feel and quick lounge access.
• Lower Mezzanine B, Row H ($194): Dead-center acoustical "sweet spot" favored by audio engineers.
• Orchestra B/C, Rows AA/JJ ($379-444): VIP rows with plush seating and in-seat service options.

View Comparison

• Orchestra vs. Balcony: Orchestra (Rows A-JJ) puts you at stage level, perfect for watching musicians' techniques. Balcony (Rows AA-TT) offers better overall ensemble perspective.
• Mezzanine Secret: The 10" elevation difference between Lower and Upper Mezzanine creates dramatically better sightlines than price difference suggests.
• Side Sections: Orchestra D/E and Balcony F provide excellent value with only slight angular viewing - avoid extreme side seats beyond Row 10.

Pro Recommendations

• For Oregon Symphony: Prioritize Orchestra C/D between rows HH-MM or Lower Balcony B/C rows R-T - these zones capture full string resonance.
• For "Back To The Future": Upper Balcony center sections (A-D) offer best screen+orchestra sightlines for film concerts.
• Group Tip: The Orchestra B, Row C ($95) blocks of 4 tickets provide exceptional group value in a prime location.
• Acoustic Warning: Upper Balcony rear rows (X-Z) may have slight echo effect during loud passages.

Special Notes

The Schnitzer's historic design means every seat has unique character. Front Mezzanine provides the most "classic concert hall" experience, while center Orchestra delivers modern comfort. For choral performances, Lower Balcony center offers ideal vocal blend.