Topmusicanswers
At most other kinds of concerts, people clap whenever the music stops, but in classical music you wait to clap until the very end of a piece. When music is playing: 1. Be quiet.
- Should you applaud during a classical concert?
- When should you clap at an orchestra?
- Should you clap between movements?
- What should you not do at a classical concert?
Should you applaud during a classical concert?
Classical music concerts can be both dazzling and disorientating for a first-timer, from the overpriced bars down to the unexpected improvised encore from the stunning concerto soloist. Nothing is more baffling, however, than the “golden rule”: that no one should applaud before the end of the symphony or concerto.
When should you clap at an orchestra?
When should I clap? At the beginning of the concert, the concertmaster will come onstage. The audience claps as a welcome, and as a sign of appreciation to all the musicians. After the orchestra tunes, Maestro Bay (or on occasion, a guest conductor) and possibly a soloist will come onstage.
Should you clap between movements?
“Music is emotion. If it makes you feel, you should clap.” Today's conductors and performers are largely not opposed to applause between movements, though they make distinctions between obligatory clapping and real, spontaneous audience reaction.
What should you not do at a classical concert?
This is the most important rule in concert etiquette. As best you can, avoid talking, whispering, whistling, singing along or humming to the music while the concert is ongoing so as not to distract other people.
