How to Behave at a Musical Performance 101

So far this school year, our children have participated in 3 middle/high school music concerts. At each of these concerts, we have been appalled at the lack of respect shown by the audiences. Apparently, parents and students lack an understanding of the differences between a sporting event and a musical performance. Allow us to provide a brief primer.

Silence your cell phone. If you lack the capacity to remember this, leave it in the car.

Sit down. If you need to leave, wait until the band or orchestra is between pieces. Compositions performed at this age level are rarely more than a few minutes. Unless it's a medical emergency or a screaming child, it can wait.

If you bring a young child prone to fussing, sit on the aisle near a door. If your child becomes disruptive, take him out to the lobby. Constantly telling him "Shhhhh" doesn't help.

Don't call attention to your child. We all think our own children are special and there is nothing wrong with that. However, giving a "shout out" to your son or daughter as they walk onstage is inappropriate. Your actions promote an overall sense of disrespect. If your child is a prodigy and needs to be center stage, rent a hall and put on your own concert.

Be quiet. Catch up on the latest gossip with your friends before or after a performance, not during. We really don't care about your recent vacation or how much you hate your job.

We attend to support and encourage our children to participate in music programs. We respect the children and their family and friends who spend their time doing the same. Why can't you?

[Letter to the Editor - Farmington Observer - Published 12/22/2005]