Benaroya Hall | Seattle Symphony Tickets - Best Seats for Ravel's Boléro

Expert Guide to Benaroya Hall's S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium Seating

Experience Ludovic Morlot conducting Ravel's Boléro with the Seattle Symphony in one of America's finest concert halls. This detailed seating guide helps you choose between value seats, acoustic sweet spots, and premium options at Benaroya Hall.

Best Value Tickets (Under $100)

• Orchestra Right QQ ($66): Great entry-level option with 4+ tickets available. Slightly angled view but excellent sound.
• Orchestra Left E ($76): Closer to stage but side position. Perfect for seeing string sections up close.
• Orchestra Right P ($86): Mid-orchestra depth with better sightlines than QQ rows. Good for small groups (4 tickets).

Sweet Spot Seats (Best Balance of Price & View)

• Orchestra Right JJ/FF ($96): Prime acoustics in the "golden rectangle" - ideal for experiencing Boléro's crescendo.
• Second Tier Center D ($111): Elevated perspective with full stage view. Center alignment perfect for watching conductor.
• Orchestra Center PP ($112): Rear center orchestra offers balanced sound. 6+ tickets available for larger groups.

Higher Tier Options (Premium Experience)

• Founders Tier Center D ($137-146): Intimate balcony seating with direct line to stage. Minimal sound reflection.
• Founders Tier Center C ($154): Front balcony for those who prefer elevated seating with pristine acoustics.

View Comparison Key Differences

• Orchestra Side vs Center: Side sections (Left/Right) offer closer proximity but angled views. Center provides perfect symmetry.
• Tiered Seating: Second Tier offers better overall perspective while Founders Tier provides more intimacy.
• Front Orchestra (Rows A-E): See musicians' techniques but may miss full ensemble blend.
• Rear Orchestra (PP-QQ): Better for experiencing the hall's renowned acoustical bloom.

Premium & Last-Minute Options

• Third Tier F ($302): Highest balcony but surprisingly good acoustics. Only choose if you prefer "bird's eye" view.
• Orchestra PP Side ($324): Premium side sections with extra legroom and amenities.
• Orchestra X ($758): Ultra-premium front center seats - best for special occasions.

Expert Recommendations

• For small groups: Orchestra Left JJ (2 tickets at $126) offers perfect mid-hall positioning.
• For best acoustics: Founders Tier Center C provides the hall's signature "surround sound" effect.
• For budget-conscious: Orchestra Right QQ delivers surprising quality at just $66.
• For Ravel's Boléro: Choose Orchestra Center JJ or Second Tier Center to fully appreciate the crescendo.

Seating Chart Tips

Benaroya Hall's vineyard-style seating means there are few truly bad seats. The hall's acoustic canopy ensures consistent sound quality throughout. For percussion-heavy pieces like Boléro, center sections provide the most balanced experience.