Kudos to Salem Audiences

Salem audiences have often been chastised for their boorish behavior at concerts. While at times it has been warranted, ( I think of the cell phone that kept ringing and the baby that kept crying during Itzhak Perlman’s performance at the Historic Elsinore Theatre) I have to say that after a recent concert I attended in Portland my hat is off to Salem concert and theatre-goers. I believe that the arts should be accessible to all and I was ecstatic to see such a diverse audience, but really, do people not understand that “No cameras or recording devices” applies to them as well?
I understand that attending your first classical concert can be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. It is kind of like going out to dinner at a “fancy” restaurant and not knowing which fork to use. The etiquette can be a little daunting, but don’t be scared. There are a few simple things that can help you, and those around you, enjoy your evening out.
Unlike other genres of music, most classical music has multiple movements in one song. It is customary to applaud only after all of the movements have been played. While this is easier to follow when there is a printed program, a simple rule of thumb is that when there is a conductor, he will drop his baton (or his right hand) to his side or place his/her baton on the stand at the completion of the piece. In the case where there is not conductor (thing small ensemble), the performers will generally stand if seated or lower their instruments in front of them if standing to indicate that they are finished. If you still aren’t sure, err on the side of waiting to clap.
While it is wonderful to expose children to all types of music, if they are unable to sit still or are under the age of eight, it is probably best to hire a babysitter. Certainly once they have started to explore music in school, it is wonderful for them to be able to see the possibilities before them by seeing professionals perform.
Not sure what to wear? The days of black tie and evening gowns have gone by the wayside and while it is still not appropriate to attend a performance in exercise clothes or your pajamas, really anything goes. Be comfortable, you want to be able to enjoy the music and not be worried that your tie is choking you.
This brings me back to where I started. The camera thing, they really do mean everyone. Not only is it disrespectful to the artist to record them without their knowledge, it is distracting to those seated around you to see the light from your cell phone/camera. Take all the mental pictures you want and relive the memories that way.
Most of all, don’t be afraid. Music and theatre is meant to be enjoyed by all. Visit www.artsmartsalem.org for a listing of events for the current month and remember, “There’s Something to do in Salem”.