Concert Etiquette

When you Arrive:

Always come to concerts at least 15 minutes early to get tuned and settled. This helps things run smoothly, and it also helps you perform in a comfortable, relaxed state of mind. Give yourself a chance to decide where you're going to sit, and look over the program. Take the time to walk around the concert space to get used to it, because this helps performers feel more comfortable.

There will usually be a special place for cases. Please check with the teacher to find out where your case should go. Get it out, get it tuned, and then set it back in the case with the lid open. If the teacher says it's okay to keep your case with you, put it on the floor underneath your seat. Don't put it on the seat, because that takes away a seat for someone else.

Usually, students will sit together. This is so that the process of getting on and off the stage can be as simple as possible. Parents and other audience members, please sit close to the middle of the row, so that others coming later can seat themselves freely.

Plan to stay for the entire recital.  It is considered poor concert behavior to leave in the middle, and disrespectful to those who play at the end. Student concerts usually last about an hour.

Wear nice clothing to show respect for the music.  Collared shirt, dress pants and shoes are good for boys, and formal dresses for girls are appropriate. 

During the recital:

Silence your mobile phone before entering the auditorium.

Parents, please monitor your kids: no running, jumping, or shouting while inside the building. Show respect for the concert at all times. If your child should start to misbehave during the concert, the best approach is to take him or her outside. Any time you're in the building, including before and after the concert, it's very important for everyone to be respectful and safe.

Always remain quiet and still during a performance. Do not whisper, rustle your program, open candy wrappers, or type on your mobile phone.

Leaving the auditorium: If you or your child must leave your seat to use the rest room, only do so between pieces, and return between pieces. If you have a young child that you think may need to go outside, please plan ahead and sit near the end of the row.

If there are refreshments:

Parents, please supervise your children and do not allow them to run, jump or shout. Kids, listen to parents or teachers who remind you to behave well.

Do not stay in the performance room or the refreshment room without a teacher present. When the teacher goes home, everyone else must leave. This is a liability issue.

Remember to have fun—the concert is for you!

☺

BACK TO HOME                                BACK TO CONCERT INFORMATION