Classical Concert FAQs and Basic Etiquette:

When do I clap?

Many people new to classical music are unsure or even intimidated about when to clap while listening to a multi-movement work like a Beethoven symphony. The unwritten “rules” about clapping have changed over time. In Beethoven’s era (late 18th century to early 19th century), audiences often clapped in between movements if they particularly liked what they heard. For example, when Beethoven premiered his Symphony No. 7 in 1813, the audience demanded an immediate encore of the second movement. From the mid-19th century through most of the 20th, the convention of remaining silent until the end of the entire work became the norm. Today, more conductors and ensembles are encouraging people to clap when they feel moved to do so, although some audience members may prefer to remain silent until the end.

However, sometimes the pause between movements is an important component of the music and should not be interrupted; in those instances, the conductor will often keep their arms raised before continuing. You can’t go wrong with the basic rule of thumb: clap when the conductor lowers their arms.

What should I wear?

Clothes. Wear clothes. If you check out any given audience’s sartorial splendor, you will probably see everything from jeans and cowboy boots to traditional evening attire. Many people enjoy dressing up for concerts, but others prefer a more casual look. If the concert is outdoors, take weather and temperature into account, and as a matter of courtesy, don’t wear a large hat that will obstruct the view of people sitting behind you. In general, when it comes to clothes, wear what you like.

Basic etiquette:

Arrive early so you can find your seat, read the program, use the bathroom if necessary, and answer any last-minute texts or messages before the concert begins. Then…

Turn off your cell phone. Even if you are just texting or reading, the light from the screen can distract other patrons or even the musicians if you are sitting close enough. Live music should be experienced in real time, and deserves your full attention. You can text about it or take pictures afterwards.

Gum, cough drops, sneezing, coughing:

Gum: don’t chew gum during a concert; the sound can disturb people around you.

Cough drops: if you need to unwrap a cough drop, do it before the music begins, or during a particularly loud moment to cover the sound. If you must unwrap it while the music is playing, do it as quickly as possible, rather than drawing out the sound of the wrapper crinkling (which can be surprisingly loud).

Sneezing: try to muffle any sneezes as best you can. If you have allergies, take meds before the concert to keep the sneezes to a minimum. Obviously, stay home if you are actually sick.

Coughing: see sneezing.

Talking:

Once the music starts, don’t, even in a whisper. It’s very distracting. Talk before or afterwards. If you are bringing kids with you, explain the importance of remaining quiet and sitting still before you arrive.

Kids at concerts:

Introducing kids to classical music can be a wonderful experience for you and them. Use your common sense and good judgment when deciding which concerts to attend with kids. Some concerts are especially designed for families with young children; they tend to be shorter and less formal. Since most young children have brief attention spans and may experience difficulty sitting still for long periods, these family-friendly concerts are a good choice. Many older children and pre-teens are developmentally ready to experience a standard classical concert (e.g., they can sit quietly and focus on the music). All kids are different, and you know yours best; if you think they are ready, they probably are.

Written by Elizabeth Schwartz

Elizabeth Schwartz is a musician, writer, and music historian based in Portland, OR. She has been a program annotator for more than 25 years, and writes for ensembles and festivals across the United States, as well as internationally. Ms. Schwartz has also contributed to NPR’s “Performance Today,” (now heard on American Public Media). http://classicalmusicprogramnotes.com