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Recital Etiquette

What is a recital?

This is a formal occasion, in a beautiful setting, where teachers, students and parents come together to celebrate the success of these young people, and to listen to their performances.  We are attentive to all students and all are welcomed enthusiastically by enthusiastic applause before they play, and again following their performance.  Please plan to stay for the entire concert.

What is expected of the student?

The student should dress as they would for any formal occasion.  Shirt, tie and slacks are acceptable for boys, NO SNEAKERS; a dress or skirt for girls, NO NAIL POLISH.  The student should approach the piano, take a bow (not a curtsy!), sit comfortably, play, and take another bow at the completion of their selections.  The first bow is to acknowledge the audience and the second bow is to thank the audience for listening.  Students should stay in their seats for the duration of the recital. 

What is expected of the audience?

Parents and guests should remain in their seats and listen to all students, welcoming them to the platform and showing their appreciation of all performances with enthusiastic applause.

The following behavior is unacceptable:

• Talking while a student is playing
• Eating during a recital
• Entering or leaving the hall while a student is playing. (If you come in late, please enter during applause and take a seat at the back of the hall, being as quiet as possible.)
• Photography of any kind during the performance. (Flashes are distracting to the performers.  Time is always given at the end to take photographs at the piano.  Use of recording devises may be done if it is not a distraction to the performers and the audience.)
• Attendance of toddlers and babies. (Small children should able to sit quietly for at least one hour.  There is a   lobby area where parents and small children may view the performance.  Younger members of the audience should stay in their seats under the firm control of their parents.)

Cell phones and other devises are a distraction and should be turned off upon entering the hall.