Etiquette for a Guitar Concert

Respect the music when attending a guitar concert.

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Guitar concerts put musicians and their fans fairly close to one another, in celebration of the music. Etiquette for concerts featuring guitar essentially involves the avoidance of anything that will hamper enjoyment of the event. Many of the standard rules for conduct apply to concerts of any musical genre.

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Dressing yourself properly is critical to politely enjoying the concert. Ladies should avoid high heels; not only are they uncomfortable to stand in for long periods, but they can injure other people's feet. Mini-skirts and tops that are too revealing or tight can be distracting to other guests. What is more, they won't provide great warmth during chilly outdoor events. Men, as well as women, should avoid bringing large bags with them. Large or high hairstyles that can obstruct other people's view of the stage also should be avoided.

Respecting the Music

Standard involves honoring the musician and his work. Talking, loud gum popping, eating, playing with toys or jewelry, and opening and closing Velcro items are all behaviors to be frowned upon. Singing along, and clapping or snapping your fingers, are common ways to interact with favorite songs at home. In a concert setting, these activities detract from the live act. Some musicians may invite audiences to sing along at certain points, but you should otherwise refrain from doing so.

Cell Phones

Cell phones have become a ubiquitous fixture in the concert scene. Using them during a performance, however, is inappropriate. Talking and texting on a phone is distracting; the other concertgoers will hear your voice instead of the music, and the phone's lit background can also vex fellow guests. It is also distasteful to record the show on your phone. The arm you extend to get the shot can obstruct someone's view.

Standing and Dancing

How you stand, dance or generally comport your body can have a significant effect on how others experience the concert. Tall people should avoid crowding the perspective of those shorter than them. Standing behind petite guests or off to the side of the stage lets everyone take in the music. Dancing etiquette at a concert is largely dictated by the music. If an epic electric guitar solo fills a spacious arena, then feel free to sprawl and move with abandon. Avoid such movement however, for example, in a packed house listening attentively to a peaceful acoustic instrumental.

ReferencesNational Association for Music Education: The Ten Rules of Concert EtiquetteMuchMusic; 10 Worst Ways to Behave At Concerts: How You're Ruining It For Everyone; May 2008NYU; The (Rock) Concert-Goer's Guide to Etiquette; III. Concert AttirePhoto Credit NA/Photos.com/Getty ImagesRead Next:

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