The Etiquette of the Orchestra

There are certain unwritten rules to keep in mind when watching a concert, which usually has two movements. Each song may last 30 minutes, so you do not applaud the performers while they are playing, and you need to be absolutely silent, otherwise you will distract the musicians. A appreciative applause can be given after the first part is done, before the performers take their leave of the stage to take a few minutes respite. When they emerge, another round of applause is given; after that, everyone settles down for the second part.

When the symphony is finished, the symphony will stand up, take a bow, and another round of applause is in order. After the performers leave the hall, the audience will clap their hands for as long as it takes until they come back onstage, take another bow, and then exit again. This will go on as a means of requesting an extended concert and finally for the third time, the performers come out and act overwhelmed with the appreciation of the audience so they act like they have no choice but to play another track. Take note that they have readied additional pieces in advance.

When the music is over, most of the time there is another clapping session, and depending on how the musicians affected the audience, the clapping process will rewind. If not, the audience picks up their bags and go home.