Classical music concerts often hold the
misconception of being stiff and refined and perhaps a bit too
upper-class for the average bear. However, modern day musicians have
proven that as much as classical music may seem like a secret
society, it is only such if attitudes prevail. The efforts of Michael
Tilson Thomas and his family concerts with the San Francisco Symphony
are evidence that classical music can be enjoyable and entertaining to
audiences of a wide range of demographics. How does one get that
fulfillment without any knowledge of classical music? How does one
truly appreciate music that is so meaningful to millions? Here are a
few tips from your friendly neighborhood musician on how to not only
increase your enjoyment of the event, but that of those with you.
- Clap when appropriate.
Clapping is appreciated when given at the proper times. If you're ever unsure, one of my favorite professors from my undergrad years always said, “Just don't be the first one in.” It is good form to clap when the conductor or performers arrive onstage. It is also a good idea to clap at the conclusion of a work. Often, works will be in multiple movements. These will be indicated in the program. The title of the whole piece will usually be set apart in some form, and sometimes underlined, bulleted, or in bold. At the end of a concert, it is customary to clap. If the performers leave the stage, you may continue clapping if you'd like to hear an encore. They may or may not give one, but they may return to the stage either way. It is appropriate to give a standing ovation if the piece or pieces in the concert were particularly moving to you.
2. Research the composers and pieces on the program.
I often have a greater appreciation for music I'm unfamiliar with when I've researched the history of the composer or the piece in question. This can give insight to the life of the composer, allowing you as an audience member to connect with them through sometimes centuries of history. The story behind Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony is that of political strife and a quiet rebellion of composers during the early 20th century. Beethoven wrote his famous Ninth Symphony when he had completely lost his hearing. Barber was extremely sensitive as a child, to the extent that confessing his love of composing over football to his mother was devastating. Anecdotes like this can help any member of the audience appreciate the work presented.
3. Avoid distractions during the performance.
Seriously. You get so much more out of a performance when you are free of electronic and conversational distraction. Difficult though it may be to turn off any and all electronic devices for an hour or so, it is distracting to the performers and other audience members when you have your phone out and on. The performers onstage have devoted their lives to the performance you paid to attend, and likewise, the composers often gave their lives so you could hear their work. You'll also hear more details, and thus notice more artistic elements about the pieces. As distracting as phone use is also conversation. It may be exciting to tell the person next to you all about the research you did about the program prior to attending the concert, but the best time to do this is before the concert starts, during breaks where applause is appropriate, or after the concert. Whispers are often audible even from the back of concert halls to the stage because concert halls are acoustically live. So, be respectful. Enjoy the music and save the conversation for later.
Best wishes for happy concerts!
