Is there an audience etiquette at Symphony concerts?
When you attend a live performance, simply enjoy your experience and allow others to enjoy theirs as well. There is no single way of behaving. The mood and purpose of the music are your clues as to how to respond. Audience reaction is not only acceptable but very much appreciated. It is all part of the live music experience. This would include applauding for a jazz solo at the Pops, joining in the sing-alongs at Christmas time, shouting “Hana hou!,” “Encore!” or “Bravo!” after a symphonic performance, and keiki squealing with delight at an education concert. At classical performances, it is considered customary to hold your applause until the conclusion of each piece, though if you feel particularly affected after a specific movement, feel free to let us know. Just do whatever comes naturally to you and remember that it was once the norm for applause to occur after a specific movement. In fact, it was not unheard of for the orchestra to repeat that movement before continuing with the r
