Concert etiquette is important as it shows respect for performers and fellow audience members alike. Musicians who pursue their craft in earnest grow to appreciate the hard work and just plain guts it takes to take the stage and carry out a musical performance. When I taught middle school, we included concert etiquette as part of the general music curriculum and reinforced the concept at concerts. A brief concert etiquette guide was listed on the back of concert programs, stating a few obvious points such as waiting until a piece is concluded if you must leave the room, and refraining from talking while the music is being performed. When the Principal made his opening remarks to begin the concert, he would often draw attention to the guide. This brief mention supported the effort of the musicians on stage and pointed to the responsibility of the audience to be courteous during the concert. It effectively set the tone in the auditorium (or gym, or cafeteria.)
Here’s a perspective on concert etiquette provided by MENC featuring renowned music advocate and motivational speaker, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser.
http://www.schooltube.com/video/858b15e7321144759d9c/Concert-Etiquette
If you have ideas that work for you in promoting concert etiquette, please share them and we’ll post them here.
