Absolutely beautiful. Extremely friendly, helpful, and quick staff. I have been searching when I can return. This was a classy treat to enjoy in a city of shorts and flip flops read more

Always a great time at Copley. Beautiful venue with great acoustics, plenty of friendly and knowledgeable staff from box office to ushers, and a talented symphony orchestra. Throw some nice threads on, enjoy the concessions, and check out some great classical music. read more

Copley Symphony Hall - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

I went with an acquaintance the other night and was pleasantly surprised to see how packed the symphony was, especially after we'd been talking about how San Diego is something of a dead zone for the arts. Our seats were outstanding for the price ($10 each) and the atmosphere was amazing. The acoustics were fine to the right-hand portion of the house, where we were seated. Going really reminded me why I used to enjoy listening to classical music more. CDs and MP3s don't do justice to the experience of hearing the classics played in person. read more

I saw Sigur Ros play here about a month ago, and I think the reason the show was amazing as it was was due to this venue. Holy crap man. Beautiful, but not pretentious. The ushers in the white coats were a little intimating, but super helpful, Plus they served beer, wine and cocktails (and the expected inflated rate) but had quick service and friendly bartenders. The venue itself was stadium seating - but *really* stadium-esque. As in, I probably could have had a 7 foot person in front of me and have been fine. The visual effect wasn't as prominent as many concerts I've been too, but I'm not sure if that's how Sigur Ros plays their cards or Copley limits the extravagance. My tickets were fairly cheap (about $35) and we had decent seating. My only complaint is that I was seated all the way at the side and was so semi-bothered by the hall lighting the whole evening. By no means ruined my experience, though. Fantastic, fantastic venue. I'm pretty sure the music couldn't have sounded better. read more

I saw Sigur Ros play at Copley last night and I must say, it was the best show I have ever seen. Ever. This is mostly due to the band, of course, but Copley Hall is an amazing work of art. The architecture is beautiful, the acoustics are pristine and it looked as thought there was't be a bad seat in the house (we sat in the 2nd row of Left Mezzanine). I've also seen the SD Symphony play here - divine. If you can't fork out the cash for this venue, they have a program where you can buy same-day tickets, for a significant discount. If you live in SD and haven't seen a performance here - you must! read more

Orchestra seating at the symphony! Everything here makes for an enchanted visit, a comfortable night out where you will be buffeted by heavenly sounds. The ample seating in the hall is an important note, it's quite comfortable while sitting through a show. The ornate decor and speakeasy style bar we stopped at made for wonderfully themed photo opportunities to remember the night with friends. Obviously we go for those phenomenal sounds. I admit I find it so relaxing I once dozed off for a moment before a crescendo of sound zapped me awake, I find it seriously relaxing yet invigorating. The symphony we are treated to in our special city draws impressive world renowned guest artists aside from our local amazing musicians who make up the symphony and dedicate their lives to their astounding performances. WRITING MUSIC: Serenade In C Major Op. 48: I. Pezzo In Forma Di Sonatina by London Chamber Orchestra & Christopher Warren-Green. https://www.shazam.com/track/63977340/serenade-in-c-major-op-48-i-pezzo-in-forma-di-sonatina read more

Copley Symphony Hall - Shots before the Joshua Bell show! Serenade for Strings by Tchaikovsky was my other favorite performance that night. - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

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I was just recently here to see Morrissey, and I was reminded just how much I like this venue. This is a very classy place to see a show, with its sophisticated decor, superb sound quality, fantastic acoustics, comfortable seating, and friendly ushers and bartenders. (Standing at the front door with my arms out and legs spread while getting frisked by security wasn't quite so classy... I wonder if they do that for their symphony patrons as well ;-) We were lucky enough to have incredible seats in the sixth row, but I really don't think there's a bad seat in the house, considering that this is a relatively small venue, and is designed for classic music performances. There's also balcony seating up above that I've ever used, but I imagine it would give a unique perspective on the stage below. The only gripe I had was the long line getting in (as a result of the aforementioned security). Otherwise, this is a great venue, and I look forward to the next show I see here. read more

Copley is a beautiful symphony hall with great acoustics. It is located away from the rowdiness of the Gaslamp district. The lobby area is grand and resoundingly... quiet. You can hear a pin drop and its prolonging echo. My friend helped me score a couple front row tickets to the symphony. We saw Jahja Ling's magnificent conductorship and were astounded by his intense and demanding presence. It was there that I felt so heavenly relaxed and had slipped into an accidental nap. Five minutes later, I woke up to the sound of snickering and exchanging looks between my friend and the lady who sat next to me. Embarrassing, I know. Anyhow, you will enjoy being at the symphony hall. Embrace the culture, it's good for you. read more

Great first time experience while entering the world of classical music for the very first time! So, how did I end up here? Easy. MUSIC 100 class that I'm taking at San Diego City College. I got tickets for my wife and I to see the San Diego Symphony with PROJECT Trio on April 6th. I did have some reservations, because I didn't know what the expect. Come to find out that it was BETTER than expected! First off, the tickets weren't too bad. They give a military discount and student discount, but you have to go to the box office to get them. I think you can also phone, but you can't buy online. We got seats close to the front on the left side. For the first time, they ended up being just fine. Before the concert started, they had kids performing in the entryway. I could not believe how great they did! You were able to purchase some refreshments there as well, but I don't believe you could take them into the concert hall itself. We got seated and noticed that there were A LOT of empty seats! Hey, good for us, I think! The concert hall was beautiful. The concert was GREAT! Here's a few takeaways: 1. Ken-David Mazur was amazing! He explained every piece that they played before and after. 2. SDSO played great! Their sound combined with the venue was very memorable that could not be replicated on You Tube. 3. PROJECT Trio was a revelation for me! Listening to the beatbox flute was so unique! They played very well and with the SDS made for a very good concert! I loved how they explained their love for classical music and got the audience involved. 4. The pieces they chose were awesome! Now I wish I was able to sit through a few more music classes before this concert to fully enjoy what I was listening to, but it's okay! 5. KIDS = DISTRACTION. Seriously. I know it was part of the Family Festival Series, but if your kid was distracting DURING the pieces, kindly exit the building. 6. Ushers were very kind and helpful. I will be back now that I really know what's up! If you haven't been, tickets are cheap and it's a great experience! read more

Hidden in an unassuming tall office building Downtown there is very architecturally pleasing symphony hall. I came here with a friend to see Machler's Fifth symphony. And as much I was trying to stay focused on the music, there were moments when my mind started wandering and then I could look at all the design elements in this magnificent space. Located in the same building is the prestigious University Club. It is a good idea for a lovely evening to enjoy drinks, good conversation and stunning San Diego views and then get some culture downstairs at the Symphony Hall. Stay classier San Diego. read more

I just saw the Chinese National Acrobats at Copley and I am blown away by the show. Yes, I'm completely serious. If I may be so bold I would say that its on par with Cirque De Soleil even though it doesnt have as much aerial maneuvers as Cirque. But still. Absolutely amazing. The performers, the costumes, the stage presence. The sheer talent that they all had was simply incredible. What i noticed, that I thought was a bit odd, was that the audience was predominantly Caucasian. Not that I care but its hard to not notice. Everyone was seated, the lights above us started to dim, there was a sudden hush as the audience saw the large curtain rising. It was time. Chinese music slowly started filling the room and the first set of performers started to appear on stage. The first few moments of the show, all that I could think of was that I only had $2 on me and the full bar outside in the lobby was cash only. read more

I just got of the phone with Philip and he was great with customer service he explained everything and walked me thru some steps he was simply the best. read more

Came here with my man about a week ago. Finding parking was a disaster.. We just parked in the $5 all night parking area (no choice..) I was wearing heels at the time and walking down the steep side road almost got me killed...I looked around and I wasn't the only one trying not to fall forward..good thing Russ was supporting me. *roads here reminds me of SF* Theres a lot of sweet old ladies working as staff here. They were helpful yet very kind :) I've been to many symphonies so I knew the dress code, but at this place not a lot of people dressed up. I was a bit confused. I saw girls wearing clubbing dresses..and guys wearing snap backs in here..(i found that weird..maybe its just me) We sat in the front, and noticed the amazing architect. The ceiling and the walls had exquisite designs and the lighting in here made it even more fancy and romantic. Felt like I was Princess Anastasia. My seats were a bit uncomfortable..but thats okay, a beer & wine will do ;) (i was surprised that they let drinks inside) The symphony was about 2 hours long including the interlude. My man and I though they chose boring songs for the entire symphony.. (I grew up listening and playing instruments.. And I enjoy listening to classical on my free time like yo-yo ma and etc) but the pieces they chose for this symphony was not so great.. Ladies, the bathroom will form a super long line..so use your time wisely.. I almost died waiting in line lol. read more

Lovely theater. I've only been here twice. One time I came to see Ani Difranco and another I came to see a very long performance of Handel's Messiah. So I've kind of got the best of both worlds and I do recommend this theater to others as both experiences were positive. Seeing Ani DiFranco and Andrew Bird here was really fun. The staff is so professional and the venue is just gorgeous so it was hilarious to have the place over-run by a super casual crowd of free-lovin' college kids, more than half of whom were lesbians. That concert in particular was spectacular because a very nice person in the lobby gave me and my girlfriend free tickets in the front section and it was an unexpected but LOVELY surprise! But yes, this theater is beautiful. It's gorgeous and the acoustics are on point. The theater is a bit large so watch out if you get tickets in a balcony because you could be really far from the action. That being said, I'd still rather see anything at the Copley rather than attend an event at a venue like the Civic Theater. There is just so much difference between the two and it would take me forever to explain. read more

The rudest staff of any venue I've ever been. They literally put their hands on me and were pushing all of us out. PUSHING. My entire evening was ruined after a great performance. Never again. read more

I attended the symphony a few nights ago and really had no complaints. My girlfriend did get the tickets for free and the fact that it was free probably made me a little more generous with stars than if I paid face value for the tickets (85 bucks). The parking directions on the website were a little misleading and you should expect to pay 15 dollars to park. Your only other option is to park many blocks away and walk (and if your girlfriend is wearing heals you might not have a girlfriend anymore after making that choice). The concert hall itself is very nice and neat architecture. The seats weren't very padded/comfortable but that can easily be fixed with a little alcohol. There are two bars (one downstairs and one upstairs) and you can bring drinks to your seat. The symphony itself played for about one hour with a 20 minute intermission. The first half was a little slow and boring but the second half picked up steam and was very entertaining. Overall, the prices are a little steep for what you get but if price isn't an issue, the venue is very nice and the symphony is top notch. read more

I went to see David Gray with Patty the other night at the Copley Symphony Hall. Terrific show by this diminutive Englishman. Great opening act too. But let's get to the Copley Symphony Hall. Wonderful, historic building, with better than most acoustics. I really enjoyed this fine old place and will be back before you know it. read more

Other than the parking being awful, this is such a great venue. The ushers and everyone working there were all very nice and friendly, and it's just beautiful. The seats are a bit older and since it's a classy place they don't have cupholders or anything, but I love that they sell upscale snacks and actually have signs saying you can eat and drink inside. SO thrilled that they had Cravory cookies and Eclipse chocolates. Very cool that they sell local goods. The bathrooms are also nice and plentiful so the lines weren't bad, which is obviously important. Would definitely go back. The feeling inside is surprisingly intimate. read more

We had a great time here watching David Gray at the end of his tour in the U.S. at Copley Symphony Hall. It was one of the best experiences we had at such a venue. The facility is connected to the Marriott hotel, which made for an easy entry and exit. I would not hesitate going to another show here. read more

Copley Symphony Hall - What a nice venue with easy parking at the Marriott! Here with my beautiful bride. - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

The interior of Symphony Hall is extremely beautiful and detailed. I recommend sitting up on the mezzanine level so you can see the everyone on stage playing. If your on the floor you can only see the conductor. I should go to the symphony more often. You should, too. read more

On Halloween 2011, I saw my first silent film here. It was Dr. Jeckel and Mr. Hyde. I was suprised to discover how much I enjoyed silent films. Interestingly enough, many of the RPGs I played growing up told stories in a similar fashion. Cut scenes, text, and wonderful orchestra music. Copley Symphony Hall opened in 1929. The gigantic pipe organ controls a full orchestra, along with percussion such as bells, cymbals and the tambourine. Even the average joe can respect the remarkable architecture of the hall. You owe it to yourself to visit this fantastic piece of San Diego history. Tonight I had the opportunity to see the Son of Sheik. It was entertaining, but I'm not a fan of classic love stories. I must admit the cinematography was impressive. Sheik and his son were played by the same actor, and in several scenes they are fighting off thieves and thugs side by side. The organist referred to this as a split camera technique. Filmed in 1926, it is remarkable that they were able to achieve this effect read more

The is a beautiful hall for classical music. Who says San Diego doesn't have any culture? it's here, it's here! The hall itself is stunning; elegant, stately, timely. The quality of the San Diego symphony is on par with those of bigger cities; the San Diego Master Chorale sounds wonderful in this space as well. The Symphony offers many levels of tickets, including $10 tickets for students on non-sold out shows. Can't beat that with a stick! There are performances for kids, special tours and informational sessions to get you more info on the building, the orchestra, the particular piece being played. There's something magical about going to the symphony, isn't there? I need to remember to bring tissues, because 9 times out of 10 i'm reduced to tears, moved by the beauty of it all. read more

Came here on Saturday night to see Lewis Black - I know what you're thinking... Lewis Black at a symphony hall?? WTF?? I thought the same thing- I wasn't sure they would even let you buy drinks, but they did sell cash-nly drinks for ridiculous prices during the intermission. The show was great- I was a little irritated that there is only one bathroom and our seats were at the polar ends of each other. The show was great- the opening comedian was great too. We parked several blocks away on a meter- free parking after a certain time at night- just read the signs. read more

This is a downtown treasure if you've not been inside. The concert hall was the original Fox (Gothic-luxury) Theatre when it opened in 1929 and became home of the SD Symphony in the '80s and Symphony Towers built around it so you can really appreciate its beauty. The theatre has upper and lower seating, I've had really good orchestra seats and some closer to the wall in the upper section and both were great. It's been upgraded/renovated and the sound / acoustics are great. The lobby has more movement and there was no log jam at the bottom of the stairs or near bathrooms. Oh and those women bathrooms- awesome- Nice stalls with door to ceiling doors. Yes they made an impression on me! We've only seen the SD Symphony there. Parked nearby in an open air lot off of 8th street for $5 (0-10hrs). Many restaurants nearby as well before or after a show:) read more

Copley Symphony Hall - Stage - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

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Very nice venue. It is more like historic architect inside out. We went there for Yoyo Ma concert and my first time to Copley, my first impression for this venue is pretty grand and historic. Love looking at the details of the walls and ceiling. We seat at the orchestra level LFT section, the sound may not be enough. But one of my frd said the sound at the balcony section is much better. For parking, we pay $5 at the parking structure 2 blocks away from Copley. The structure is located at Ash and 6th ave. Very convenient and very affordable. read more

We saw Ben Harper and it was amazing. This is where the review should end and it be apparent that the venue did nothing less than amaze us. But of course not, you need more. Ok, I'll give you a taste. Solid as a rock from front to back, Copley knows how its done. The venue is beauty and efficiency in one package. The only thing that they could have done better would be to personally carry me from my vehicle to my seat. Great staff, bar, and facilities will all help you understand my perspective. Go....... NOW! BTW: While you're at it, bring me nachos and a beer. Seat 14A 5 *****(stars) read more

Lovely hall. I saw Katt Williams here :) parking sucked.

Overall 4 star first time experience. From 6th and A it was a little confusing trying to get downstairs to the entrance. Paired up with other lost patrons but once at the entrance. Superb experience. Beautiful framed stage. So much detail to admire. The symphony sounded just heavenly like angels. If the volume was turned up a few more notches it would be perfect for my hearing pleasure. The live camera's that swept through the musicians throughout the performance and shown live on huge screens on each side of the stage helped enhanced my experience. I came for William Conti, Sheena Easton sings James Bond and I wish I came again. Lovely performance it went so fast I couldn't believe how fast the evening went. Conti's trivia and humor paired with the sultry Sheena Easton and backed by the symphony. Just all the ingredients for a perfect 007 night out at the symphony. The final topping on this audience full of secret agent event was the patrons were greeted with 007 characters and some even worked the crowd. I was approached by a lady that was dressed to the nines and resembled Cruella Deville with a large hat, dark shades and cigarette. She told me "I'm Helga. KGB Russian spy. I'm looking for Bond in this crowd. He stole secret weapon." I could not laugh harder. She stayed in character even taking a pic with her before the show. read more

Copley Symphony Hall - Beautiful hall - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

Really beautiful older music hall. For symphonies, you lose a lot of visibility range setting up front on the main floor but the acoustics are still nice. read more

Nothing like the great Copley Symphony Hall to make you feel like royalty. There is not a bad seat in the place. I actually prefer sitting in the balcony areas so I can view the full symphony. I've been a number of times but recently saw the great Emanuel Ax playing Brahms Piano Concerto Number Two. There was a video screen so you could watch a close up of his hands on the ivories. It was hypnotic. This venue is gorgeous and you can partake in some libations before the concert. Check out their schedule which seems to have something for everyone. Every year I think their concert series gets better and better. They host some excellent guest conductors and musicians. Last season we were able to see John Williams. Viewing a legend like this was a once in a lifetime experience for me and one I will remember forever. read more

Beautiful venue. Refreshments served. Not really a bad seat in this theater. We sat in very top section, and although we were a little ways a way we could see perfectly. Great sound. The only negative for us was parking. We parked at Balboa Park and took and Uber down. * hint* Grant Grill offers 20% off food purchases before or after the show. I think there are a couple of restaurants that offer deal too. read more

Copley Symphony Hall - Theater view from very top center section - Music Venues Near Me - San Diego, California

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Came to enjoy the San Diego Youth Symphony Spring Showcase concert for Wind Ensemble. The venue screams class, elegance, and architectural beauty. From the columns to the ceilings, it a beautiful sight to see. read more

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It had been many years since I have been here. This time for a concert and it was a great venue for a concert. All the ushers were friendly and did not hassle us for taking pictures-which I like. It is a great place to see someone and actually have the acoustics sound good. read more

I have been here a few times now and am going to have to give this one a split review. If you are going for Symphony, it's great. Our son plays in SDYS and we've had two concerts here. Very nice hall, event parking right across the street, they serve beer and wine, etc. If you know someone playing and want a chance at actually seeing them, instead of just assuring yourself that they are up there somewhere, then sit upstairs. If you are on the main level you just see the conductor and that's about it. The sound, however, is great. For other shows, such as comedy shows, I'm not in love with the place. We just saw Daniel Tosh there. Got there just after doors opened and the lines for drinks were ridiculously long. They don't have nearly enough staff pouring drinks. How can you get your buzz on when you have to wait in line for 30 minutes just for a drink, right? It's also a little annoying that the ushers check your tickets about every ten feet. Most people are familiar with alphabetical order and the whole upstairs/downstairs concept and don't need that much help finding their seats. Bottom line: The hall itself is great, the service could use a little help. Don't forget to bring some cash. The "bars" are cash only. read more

I really want to support places like this and organizations like SD symphony but out of many venues I've had good fortunes to visit all over the country, it makes me sad to say this hall has the most unfortunate acoustics I've experienced. Three stars are solely for the SD symphony and its supporters for their efforts of keeping arts alive in the area. For the hall itself, I would give 1 star. I see that they have made some treatments on the stage itself for the symphony and I'd imagine for the performers, the acoustics are pretty good. For the audience, the place is architecturally beautiful but really not suitable for live music. By that I mean live music, not the amplified let's get as loud as possible kind. Strings sound really thin, percussions sound dead, largely because of the poor acoustics. LA has WD (which has the in your face acoustics that I don't prefer but percussions and brass sound great), OC has Segerstrom (not ideal but very reverberant acoustics that makes strings sound luscious). I think it's long overdue for San Diego to have a dedicated concert hall that can do justice to the musicians. read more

All petformed flawlessly. Opened with The Best of Bond. Pink Panther by Mancini with a hue of pink in the background, and an amazing jazz sound. Incredits from the movie 'The Incredibles' was performed to the excitement of all. Sheena's performances received standing ovations! read more

Recently attended a performance of Jason Alexander and the San Diego Symphony at Copley Symphony Hall. From the time I bought the tickets (at the box office- gotta save those fees), the experience was great. The box office offers a student discount- awesome for a broke graduate student- and allowed me to pick up 2 seats for that price. The seats they gave me were pretty solid too, orchestra, row T, close to the middle. Night of the performance everything went smoothly. The staff were helpful, the setting clean, the acoustics great. Highly recommend. read more

Its been a while and can't wait to go back. copley is just one those places that hold dear to me. read more

I've been attending the symphony here for years, and have had nothing but stellar experiences. The programming offers classics and unique pieces, the rates are relatively affordable, and the facility is well-kept. More recently, I also had an experience where I got turned around between Copley and the Civic Theatre, and the staff were exceedingly nice in redirecting me without making me feel a fool. I'd highly recommend seeing a show here. read more

i like copley. it's a charming little venue. it's like the home for the san diego symphony. because really. there aren't too many places to go. unless they're doing chamber music. and the acoustics of this place just can't support that. me. i personally like the design. nothing over the top. but appropriate. we're san diego. so don't expect something you'd find in europe. or with deeper roots/history. they got limited liquor and snacks on both floors. but you really didn't come here for either. and for watching the ballet. well. there just isn't room to have a performance with live music. it just wasn't built for that. but still. i'm happy that we have anything at all. sound wise. i have nothing really to compare it too. plus that can be subjective on so many levels. some may like that up front sound. while other like the back. i'm not one to tell you what you should like. but i prefer it below and from the rear (yeah i'm nasty like that). rather than from the balcony. yet i find the view so much better from the top (plus non one likes a power bottom). so f*ck it. ima be torn and conflicted like how i am with beer. not sure if it tastes great. or less filling. but yeah. i like this place. and the ushers have always been polite. helpful. and friendly. i remember they moved us up to slightly better seats for the ballet. because they were nowhere near capacity. that was nice of them. go here. or not. because i'm not one to tell you what to do. now. read more