Concert Etiquette

Overview

People whispering. Mobile phones ringing. Talking. Turning around in seats. Leaving before the entire performance is finished. Does this sound like your typical audience at a concert or festival? You are not alone. In recent years, a large number of complaints from music educators concerns the topic of audience behavior and how best to address the issue of concert etiquette.

We have included a helpful guide, "10 Rules for Students," which could be used as a handout for students prior to attending performances at school or off-campus.

You Are Part of the Concert                           

Audiences, as well as the musicians, are participants in every concert. When you participate in listening to the music, you will be taking an important part by sharing this experience with others in the audience and with the musicians on stage.

Concerts are much different from sporting events, and require you to know some specific concert manners.

Concert Etiquette

Enter the auditorium quietly. Once you have been seated, be alert to activity on the stage as the musicians take their place for the concert.

When the conductor enters, it is customary to applaud politely. Whistling, yelling, or screaming is not appropriate at any time before, during, or after a concert.

Never stand or move around while music is being performed. It distracts listeners around you, as well as the performers. If you must leave for any reason, wait until a piece is finished, and the audience is applauding. Also, return to your seat only between numbers.

Please do not hum or clap along with the performers, unless specifically invited to do so.

It is impolite to talk, or even whisper, while the music is being performed.

It is impolite to wear hats or caps during a concert.

Always say “excuse me,” if you must pass in front of someone while going to or from your seat.

If you must cough or sneeze while the music is being performed, always try to muffle the sound with a tissue or handkerchief.

Watch the conductor when the music stops to decide whether or not to applaud.

When leaving an auditorium, always return your seat cushion to the upright position to make it easy for others to pass through the rows.

CONCERT ETIQUETTE QUIZ

NAME_____________________________________

Indicate in the blank whether the statement is True (T) or False (F).

______ 1.   Whistling and calling out are appropriate behavior at a concert.

______ 2.   If you need to leave the auditorium, just get up and walk out at

                    any time.

______ 3.   Applause should begin before the conductor has given the final cut off.

______ 4.   Consideration and respect for everyone involved in a performance should be the ultimate goal.

______ 5.   If you feel the urge to clap or sing along during a performance, go ahead and chime right in.

______ 6.   You should enter the auditorium walking backwards.

______ 7.   During the performance, it is a good idea to sit quietly and listen.

______ 8.   After the performance is over you should rush up to the stage.