When you attend a musical performance, you as an audience member play an important role in the event. Your job is to demonstrate correct audience etiquette. Etiquette is the set of rules for polite behavior in a given situation. Some standards of etiquette, like saying “please” and “thank you,” are always in style. However, some people are surprised to learn that certain situations – like different concert venues – call for specific standards of etiquette.
Rock Concerts
When rock bands play in big stadiums and arenas, it is typical for audience members to scream, cheer, dance, and sing along. Vendors often sell food at these events, which audience members may eat while they enjoy the show. People typically dress very casually at rock concerts. The atmosphere at these events is very laid-back.
Classical Concerts
At a classical concert, the standards of behavior are different. Concert halls are designed to be quiet and peaceful places where listeners can focus all of their attention on the music. Audience members are encouraged to behave in a way that shows respect to the music and the performers.
- It’s a good idea to dress neatly.
- It is important to turn off any electronic devices, like cell phones, that can distract people from the performance. (Even texting is distracting!)
- Eating a snack in the concert hall is usually not permitted.
- Audience members listen quietly to the music, although they are free to clap and cheer when a song has ended.
- It's best to stay in your seat for the whole performance.
- If you must leave the concert hall during the performance, you should do so between songs.
- Likewise, when you return, you should wait outside the concert hall and enter during the applause between songs.
- If you are a friend – or just a really big fan – of someone on stage, it’s great to shower them with attention after the show, but it’s not polite to call out their name during the performance.
Other Concerts
Now, not to get too confusing, but there are some venues where the standards of audience etiquette fall somewhere in between a rock show and a classical concert.
Jazz clubs are a great example.
- It’s still considered respectful to turn off your electronics, and to listen quietly to the music.
- However, you are encouraged to applaud for soloists, even in the middle of a song.
- These venues often sell food and drinks, so it’s okay to enjoy those while you listen.
To show your appreciation for the music you listen to, it’s important to choose the appropriate audience etiquette for your situation.