In Monday’s (10/21) Reno Gazette-Journal (Nevada), Scott Faulkner, executive director of the Reno Chamber Orchestra and an orchestral bass player, writes, “Orchestra audience members know, or soon discover from an arrogant glare, that it is only appropriate to clap at the end of a piece…. For some pieces, this works perfectly…. But there are moments where raucous, rambunctious, joyous music makes it downright ridiculous for an audience member not to respond physically or audibly … I used to roll my eyes in judgment when a stray audience member or two clapped their hands between movements. I have since changed my tune…. Henceforth, it is OK for you to applaud, vocalize and otherwise actively respond to the music you experience—this also includes listening with razor-sharp silence. Keep in mind that everyone hates the jack-wagon who has to be the first to yell ‘Bravo!’ after any opera aria, and don’t get me started about the obligatory applause required after even the most mediocre jazz solo. Don’t be disrespectful, insensitive or obnoxious to your fellow audience member’s listening experience—be human…. For far too long, we in the orchestra business have bridled the very thing that is the best hope for our future—the enthusiasm of our audience.” A separate article by critic Michael Dervan in Wednesday’s (10/23) Irish Times considers the same topic and comes to a similar conclusion.
Posted October 23, 2013
