Concert Etiquete 101
Consider the volume.
Terry Theater Concert Hall is close quarters with excellent acoustics. What may be a whisper at Metro Center during rush hour is a full-throated conversation in the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. We appreciate your consideration of others.
Plan ahead
If you know you’ll need a treat to get you through the third movement of the Fauré Piano Quartet, unwrap your candies beforehand.
Be punctual
Latecomers can ruin the experience for those who have already settled into their seats.
Know when to clap
The question of when to clap at a concert seems to be a matter of concern for many people who are new to classical music. The truth is, applause is always appreciated. In earlier days, audiences applauded at the end of any portion of a piece that moved them. Today, the applause is usually saved for the end of a completed piece; you will probably notice subcategories or movements listed beneath the title (which are often indicated with tempo markings). It is considered respectful of the performers’ concentration to hold applause until then.
Of course, a sure-fire way to figure out the appropriate time to applaud is to wait for the rest of the audience to begin, and then join in! The important thing is to relax and enjoy the performance.
- Finale Concert
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
