
Recital Etiquette
Recital is a
warm and friendly event where students can exhibit the skills acquired during
the term. Family and fellow students will be there to enjoy the performances. No
one is competing with another student. All ages and levels will be represented.
To help things run smoothly, please observe the following guidelines:
*Dress
nicely as you would for church or any special affair: dress shirt for boys, no
sneakers (tie, suit or jacket is optional); slacks, skirt and blouse or dress
for girls, and dress shoes (no platform shoes or athletic shoes).
*Arrive a few
minutes before the recital begins if you want to warm up. If you are using your
music, remember your book! (Memorizaton is encouraged but not required.)
*Family and
friends may take their seats in the sanctuary. Students should sit with their
relatives during the program.
*Remember to
turn off cell phones and pagers—or set on vibrate.
*When your
name is called, walk (don’t run) to the piano with confidence and be seated on
the bench. Don’t bow before you play--only afterward.
*Take a
moment to think about your piece before you start to play. Maintain good
posture -- don’t slouch or let your legs swing.
*If you make
a mistake, stay calm. Try not to make a face! Just continue to play. Most
people will not even notice. If you lose your place, find a good starting spot
and finish gracefully.
*The
audience should respect every player and remain quiet during each performance.
Video cameras are allowed to be used from your seat, but flash photography
should wait till the performer is finished.
*If you are
playing more than one selection, pause a few seconds between pieces and bow
only after the last piece is finished.
*When done,
rise from the bench (don’t leap up), look at the audience, smile sweetly and
take a bow.
*Walk back
to sit with your family. Please stay for the entire recital which will not
exceed an hour.