A Millennials first time at a symphonyMy husband had been talking for years about going to a life symphony performance. I was interested in going but I wasnt sure if a symphony would be my cup of tea. A symphony always sounded out of reach and too stuffy of an affair for two 24 year olds. But the time came when we were ready to celebrate our anniversary, and we went for it. We decided to spring for the cheapest seats that they had, roughly $28 per person and make a day out of it. We took the hour drive up to Spokane and wondered the city, had some wine, and walked to the Fox Theater. The talk from the conductor before the show really set the tone for us. He spoke of how songs played with instruments alone could ask and answer questions, tell stories, and communicate emotions.An hour later, the show began. Instantly, I was transported into another world. A world that hours of social media, political debates, and my own world view could never bring to life. Before me, I witnessed a group of people with different races, genders, and backgrounds transform into the sounds of woodwinds, brass, percussion, and strings. After hearing them play and watching the musicians hands and faces power through more songs, I began to cry. What I what experiencing was a transcendence of Americas current divide. It was beautiful. All of these classical instruments could ask and answer questions, tell their stories, and communicate emotions. The chipper flute would pierce through the steadiness of the cellos. Then wait for a response, listen, and chime in again when the timing was right. The collection of these sounds, lifts, and rests told me the story I had been waiting to hear. That woodwinds have their own community, violins have their own sound, and a violinist has a unique perspective. But with the proper timing and respect for others, all of the musicians could create a symphony of beautiful music.The show helped me understand that our nation can take a lot from what I saw on stage that night. Humanity is messy and requires grace to take the time to listen, adapt, and come together. Right now, most Americans are soloists playing their instruments as loud as they can behind sound proof glass. Only allowing in other musicians who look like them and prove to them they are playing the exact same instrument to invite them behind the glass with them. With this approach, all that can happen is a single type of instrument can get louder and louder, with nothing to learn and no way to grow. We are drowning out opposing perspectives. We are cancelling people. We are blocking, intimating, and ignoring anything that isnt a replica our our own world view. It is my belief that every person is born with unlimited humility, grace, and compassion to compose their life. I now understand why America is emotionally torn apart-- it can no longer hear its own music. Americans, feel isolated, angry, and anxious. But if we can find the grace to hear other peoples questions, stories, and emotions, we can grow into a symphony.

The Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox is a year-round extravaganza of beauty, skill and dedication. It my wellspring of inspiration.

Great high-quality music, lively atmosphere, you can bring drinks into the awesome Fox Theater. Whats not to love?

Very emotional final concert....but so well done.

Average Small Town Symphony. Some of the guest musicians they bring in are top notch. knocked down a few stars due to strike a few years back; no refund or re-accommodation for season ticket holder. The renewed music hall is a beautiful building.

Fabulous.One of my favorite places to enjoy extraordinary talented musicians.

I always love going to the Symphony ;)

Superb music in a glorious venue!

There is no better place to spend an evening in spokane

Huge and beautiful place.