Attending concert performances is different from attending a sporting event. To ensure that all audience members benefit from an enjoyable performance it is helpful if you follow a few simple guidlines when attending concerts.

Concert Etiquette

1. Refrain from talking
The first and greatest rule.

2. Refrain from unwrapping noisy candy wrappers during the performance
If the composer wanted to include crinkle paper noises in the music, he/she would have written it into the parts.

3. Turn off pagers, cell phones, and watch alarms
While many phones and pagers now have very symphonic-like rings, they don’t always fit into the musical score, nor do they provide pleasant sounds for your neighbors.

4. Do not wave to your child during the concert
After all, they do know who you are already and they know you are there; you most likely brought them to the concert.

5. Please do not walk down the center aisle with your video camera
Video cameras work very well from the balcony and minimize distractions to all in attendance.

6. Do not leave as soon as your child’s portion of the concert is over
All of the students deserve a full audience for their performances. Remember, the next time your child’s song could be last.

7. Applaud appropriately
Show your appreciation by simply clapping and not through shouting, or whistling.

8. Do not leave the auditorium during the music
Wait for the applause between musical selections, unless you are carrying a screaming child, in which case you should leave quickly so that others can still enjoy the performance.

9. Go to the concert expecting the best
You might be surprised how good your child sounds when the other students join in.

(Adapted from MENC: The National Association for Music Education)