The best way to come into a classical concert is early. If you are late, there are guidelines:

     • Open the door and enter when you hear applause - as no one is performing at that time.

     • When you do come in, quickly pick a seat in the back.

The all-time greatest times to leave a hall: intermission and at the end. If you must leave, except in the case of emergency, wait for the right time:

     • Good choice - in between pieces.

     • Best choice - during applause

Did you ever notice that some people know exactly when to clap and when not to clap? Here’s the code:

     • Applaud for the entrance of the Concertmaster and for the Conductor.

     • The other main rule is to applaud after each piece of music.

        It is sometimes hard to distinguish when the piece ends if the selection has several sections, for example:

               "Symphony #9"

               I. Allegretto

               II. Adagio

               III. Allegro

     • Wait until the whole piece is over before applauding.

The concert hall is not the place for food, drinks, candies, lozenges, etc. Wrappers are very distracting to both the performers and the audience. If you have a cough, unwrap a lozenge or two before the music starts or during applause.

     • Avoid talking. Whispering is especially audible in a music hall designed to pick up every sound.

        Enjoy the music - talk later.

     • Share this liberal arts knowledge, as knowing is half the battle.