Going to Your First Concert & Concert Etiquette

Summary

In this video, Matthew D. Nielsen guides first-time concertgoers through the essentials of classical concert etiquette. From preparation tips like arriving early and avoiding distractions, to proper behavior such as keeping conversations and phones silent, Nielsen explains how to engage with live classical music respectfully. He highlights key points like when to clap—after the entire piece, not between movements—and the importance of dressing appropriately without feeling pressured to over-dress. The video provides a helpful guide to make your first classical music experience enjoyable and meaningful.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be prepared for the performance: know the length and intermissions ahead of time to avoid interruptions during the concert.
• 😀 Arrive early to get your tickets, grab a program, and find your seat without feeling rushed.
• 😀 If you have young children, especially under 8, it’s best to leave them at home to ensure a better experience for everyone.
• 😀 Talking during the performance, even whispering, is not acceptable in classical music concerts. Silence is crucial for the integrity of the music.
• 😀 Always put your phone in airplane mode and keep it silent during the performance to avoid disrupting the experience.
• 😀 Dress code for classical concerts is typically business casual. Formal attire like tuxedos or ball gowns is not necessary.
• 😀 Don't clap between movements in a classical composition. Wait until the entire piece is completed and the conductor’s arms have dropped.
• 😀 Be mindful of when to clap. Wait for the conductor to signal the end of the performance before applauding.
• 😀 You are not obligated to give a standing ovation unless the performance moved you. Don’t feel pressured to follow the crowd.
• 😀 The overall message is to respect the music and the performers by maintaining a quiet, respectful, and thoughtful demeanor throughout the concert.

Q & A

What should you do before attending a classical music concert?

Before attending a classical music concert, make sure you know the performance length, any intermissions, and avoid leaving mid-performance. It's important to arrive early to pick up your tickets, grab a program, and find your seat without feeling rushed.

Is it acceptable to leave the concert during the performance if I need to use the restroom?

Generally, it's considered impolite to leave the performance during a piece, including for bathroom breaks. It's better to use the restroom before the performance or during intermission. If it’s an emergency, then leaving is understandable, but try to avoid disturbing others.

Should I bring children to a classical music concert?

It’s recommended to leave children under the age of eight at home, especially if they are too young to appreciate the performance. Bringing children who can't engage with the music can lead to a negative experience for both you and other concertgoers.

Is talking allowed during a classical music performance?

Talking, even whispering, is not allowed during a classical music performance. The performance relies on silence, and any talking disrupts the musicians and the audience’s experience.

What should I do with my phone during a classical music concert?

You should turn your phone to airplane mode or silence it entirely. Using your phone during a classical music performance is considered disrespectful, as it distracts both the performers and other audience members.

What is the appropriate attire for a classical music concert?

There is no strict dress code for most classical music performances. While formal attire isn’t required, business casual is a safe and appropriate choice. Wearing jeans and hoodies is fine as long as you are respectful and quiet during the performance.

When should I clap during a classical music concert?

In classical music, you should refrain from clapping between movements of a piece. Wait until the entire work has been completed, and the conductor has lowered their arms before clapping. This shows respect for the musicians and the piece.

What should I do if I’m unsure whether to clap?

If you're unsure whether to clap, check for a few signs: Is the piece over entirely? Have the conductor’s arms come down? If the answer is yes to both, then you can clap. This practice will help you get used to concert etiquette.

Do I have to give a standing ovation after a performance?

A standing ovation is not mandatory. You should only stand if the performance was so moving that you feel compelled to do so. Even if everyone else stands, you don’t have to if you didn’t feel the performance warranted it.

What should I do if I see others clapping or standing when I’m unsure?

If you see others clapping or standing, it’s okay to follow along if you felt the performance deserved it. However, don’t feel pressured to clap or stand just because others are doing so. The decision should be based on your own experience and appreciation of the performance.