Whether you’re attending a performance as an audience member or a musician, symphony etiquette can be daunting. While it’s true that classical music concert etiquette can be more formal than, say, a punk show at your local venue, it’s pretty straightforward. These tips will help you be respectful, follow the unspoken rules, and get the most out of your performance – whether you’re on stage as a professional or simply enjoying the show.
Symphony Etiquette for Musicians
1. Be punctual.
You will likely be issued a report time before the concert. Whether or not you have a final rehearsal in the hours leading up to the performance, it’s critical to arrive on time or early to your report time. Allow ample time for travel to the venue, set up, and any tuning you may need to do.
2. Dress appropriately.
You will be given a dress code of either concert black or formal attire. For some orchestras, your attire may be provided. For others, you may be required to purchase or rent specific items. Ensure ahead of time that you have all of the required attire, it fits properly, and the clothing doesn’t hinder your playing.
Unless directed otherwise, it’s best to stick to simple, natural makeup, understated jewelry, and tidy hairstyles. If you aren’t given specific directions, a low bun or sleek ponytail is typically appropriate for people with long hair; a clean, simple style is suitable for people with shorter hair.
3. Be prepared.
It’s important to be properly prepared prior to your performance. This means knowing your music and cues well and being familiar with the flow of the performance and any stage directions you may have. In the days leading up to the performance, ensure that your instrument is in good working order so that you have time for any potential repairs.
You may have rehearsal on the day of your concert. If so, this is the ideal time to tune your instrument. If you do not have a rehearsal, be sure to tune your instrument well ahead of the performance. Avoid tuning on stage once the audience begins arriving unless you are told to do so.
4. Keep quiet.
During the performance, respect the conductor, the audience, and your fellow musicians. Don’t talk during the performance or make unnecessary noise with your instrument. If you must set your instrument or bow on the ground, do so very carefully so as not to disturb the other musicians or distract the audience.
5. Stay engaged.
Remember, this is a performance. Stay engaged and professional, even if you aren’t playing. If you look bored, the audience will notice! Maintaining a professional stage presence shows respect for your conductor, fellow musicians, and the audience members who paid to attend the performance. If you must yawn, cough, sneeze, or look away, do so as discretely as possible. Ensure that your phone is off, preferably backstage, and you don’t have any alarms or notifications on your watch.
6. Be gracious.
Always show gratitude to your audience, the conductor, and any soloists. Smile at the audience when they applaud at the end of a piece and acknowledge soloists after the conductor does so. At the end of a performance, the conductor may indicate that your section or the entire orchestra should stand while the audience applauds. Be sure to smile and acknowledge the applause with tact.
Orchestra Concert Etiquette for Audience Members
1. Arrive early.
As an audience member, you must arrive at the hall early. Your ticket may indicate when “doors open,” which is when you can take your seat. Arriving early gives you time to purchase refreshments if available, use the restroom, and settle into your seat before the lights go down.
Of course, sometimes life gets in the way. Car trouble, traffic, and late meetings can cause you to arrive after the performance has started. You may be asked to wait in the lobby until a break between pieces or the intermission to avoid distracting fellow audience members and the musicians on stage. Be kind and respect the requests of the ushers.
2. Comply with the dress code.
Dress code can be a significant stress point for symphony attendees, especially first-timers. Relax! Check the event or venue guidelines beforehand to see if there is a recommended dress code, or call the venue itself to find out. If there isn’t a prescribed dress code, smart casual or semi-formal apparel is typically appropriate. It may be more casual for outdoor performances, especially during the daytime. Either way, be sure to bring a light jacket or shawl in case the venue is chilly!
3. Disconnect from electronic devices.
Before the performance starts, turn off your phone and silence your smartwatch. This is a great time to disconnect from your screen for a few hours. Keep devices stashed in a pocket or bag throughout the performance, too – taking photos or videos can be disruptive and, in some cases, grounds for removal from the venue. Sit back and enjoy the music!
4. Know when to clap.
Clapping at the wrong time can feel comparable to those dreams of showing up to school in your underpants. In most instances, you’ll want to clap between complete pieces, not movements within the pieces. If you’re unfamiliar with the pieces, wait for other audience members to start clapping or for the conductor to turn to the audience and bow.
5. Stay seated.
Arriving late can be distracting, as can moving through the concert hall mid-performance. If you must get up for any reason, wait for a moment between pieces or during the intermission. If you leave during a piece, ushers will likely not let you back into your seat until the piece is completed.
At the end of the performance, a standing ovation is appropriate and appreciated by the musicians. Once the applause is over and the lights come up, waiting for the conductor and musicians to leave the stage before you exit the hall is traditional.
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