Concert Etiquette

Please help us continue Rockwall Independent School District's long-standing tradition of proper concert etiquette.

Our concerts are formal concerts and the behavior of our audience and students should reflect that of a professional venue.  As many of our concerts are recorded to be adjudicated for contests, we ask that you follow the standard etiquette practices so that we can ensure to have the highest quality recording available.  

• Enter the auditorium quietly.  Once you have been seated, be alert to the activity on the stage as the musicians take their place for the concert.
• When the conductor enters, it is customary to applaud politely.  Whistling, yelling or screaming is not appropriate at any time before, during or after a concert.
• Parents should keep small children seated with them.  If children become restless or fussy, please move them to the foyer.
• Never stand or move around while music is being performed.  It distracts the audience around you, as well as the performers.  However, if you must leave for any reason, please wait until a piece is finished; and the audience is applauding.  Conversely, return to your seat only between numbers.
• It is impolite to talk, or even whisper, while the music is being performed.  The audience and performers are also distracted by sounds from programs, candy wrappers, jewelry and other objects.  Remain still, and be considerate of others by talking or making sounds only between numbers.
• Please no food or drink in the auditorium.
• Watch the conductor when the music stops to decide whether or not to applaud.  Some musical works have several parts or movements and the audience is expected to applaud only after all movements have been performed.
• Clapping is the appropriate way to show appreciation for the performance rather than whistling or cheering.
• Please silence your cell phones during the concert.
• No flash photography should be taken during the concert as it is distracting to the performers and the audience.  Please make sure your flash on your cell phone is also turned off should you decide to use it to photograph or video the concert.

The ABCs of Concert Etiquette

A ­ Always remain quiet during a performance.
B  Be attentive and give the performers your attention.
C Be Considerate of others.
D Do not leave early, please. 
E  Exit in an organized fashion. 
F  Expect a Fantastic performance; the kids have worked very hard. 
G Give appropriate applause. 
H Have a great time, but be a considerate member of the audience. 
I   Invite your relatives to come see an outstanding concert. 
 J  EnJoy the concert but always treat it as a formal event. 
K  Keep your children that are not performing, with you during the concert.
L  Leave your cell phone turned off during the performance, please.
M  Music is good for the soul so enjoy it
N  No Flash Photography or Videos