Clapping at Concerts? Four Classical Music Myths Debunked by the Seattle Times

When do you clap at a classical music concert? How do you dress for the symphony stall? Some of classical music's great myths concerning concert hall etiquette and performance attendance were recently taken to task by the Seattle Times.

In a piece by writer Michael Upchurch, the author surveys four top myths involved in classical music performance. The run-down includes the expense of attending a concert, the attire involved in attending, the seemingly autocratic nature of classical etiquette and the feeling of being fingered as an "outsider" when attending.

On the subject of clapping during a classical musical performance, whereas applause is generally considered only applicable at the end of a movement -- not within -- the article itself quotes Seattle Symphony fan Erica L. Gomez in her take on the matter:

"I think it's really unfortunate that applause between movements is discouraged," Gomez says. "I think it's delightful. I think it was definitely part of the original intent of many pieces of music to inspire applause, and I wish it was something that we did. I've seen it happen spontaneously a couple of times at Seattle Symphony, and to me it just heightens the experience."

The Guardian also weighs in on the rules of engagement when attending a classical concert. In a survey of the issue by reporter Kate Molleson, the journalist catalogs the apparently incongruous nature of a classical music performance's rules and regulations:

"The classical music community gives mixed messages. ... In some respects, we've relaxed into being able to dress how we like and experience concerts as an everybody, everyday event. In others, we've come to demand sanctimonious listening environments of silence and absolute stillness. ... Such a response alienates those not in the know -- and if our aim is to welcome new listeners to the fold, we can't make them feel daft when they get there."

What do you think of concert hall "rules"? Do you abide by them or shun them? Be sure to read the full Seattle Times investigation and share your thoughts on the issue!

Listen to some cool classical music below.

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TagsClassical Music, Michael Upchurch, Erica L. Gomez, Seattle Symphony, Kate Molleson