Student recitals can be tremendously fun and valuable experiences for young pianists. Unfortunately, they can also be a source of some stress and anxiety if preparations aren't complete and certain practices aren't followed. There are guidelines and rules of behavior all performers and audience members should follow during music recitals of any sort. The most basic rule is to give the performer the same courtesy and respect you would desire in the same situation.

Audience members must remember the purpose of their visit to the recital hall - to listen quietly and appreciatively to the music being offered by the performers. It is rude and offensive to talk while someone is playing. Conversation can also be quite distracting to others in the audience, perhaps even to the performer if the talking is loud enough. Making noises or chewing gum or candy is not acceptable. It is also not polite to write notes to others, pull out a book to read, or make origami animals and paper airplanes out of the programs while the recital is in progress. Once a recital begins, there should be no movement - that means no running to get a drink of water, no strolling up and down the aisles, and no leaving to go to the bathroom (unless and only unless it is an absolute emergency). Parents should discuss with their children in advance whether or not video-taping or picture-taking will interfere with the child's concentration. I have witnessed many times a potentially good performance turn into a frenzy after the flash of a camera. It can be very startling to have a flash aimed at you unexpectedly while playing.

Regarding the performers themselves, I feel very strongly that one should be comfortable when playing. Comfortable, by my definition, is clothing that doesn't restrict arms, elbows, or wrists. I don't feel suits and formal gowns are necessary for student recitals; but sneakers, t-shirts, torn jeans, spandex, etc. are definitely not appropriate. Such casual outfits leave the impression that your audience is not important enough to merit your best appearance.

All performers need to bow; that's just the law. It is necessary to bow regardless of the quality of your performance. Applause is an appreciative acknowledgement of your playing by the audience. If you do not bow, it is comparable to your saying, "I don't care what you think." If after a performance, audience members compliment you, accept the praise graciously. It is rude to discredit their remarks by suggesting they are kidding, they didn't realize all the mistakes you made, or that they are just trying to be nice.

In short, as a performer, you must arrive on time wearing appropriate recital attire, listen carefully, play well, bow when you approach the piano and when you leave, be very quiet while others are playing, and be polite to the other performers and audience members at all times. Oh, and HAVE FUN!

© Copyright 1998, 1999 Joe Gallant. All rights reserved.