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Is there anything worse than paying good money for a concert ticket only to arrive to find yourself seated near an obnoxious and ill-mannered spectator? It happens more often than one might think. It is in your best interest, and in the best interest of others, to arm yourself with the knowledge of what is appropriate behavior while attending all types of concerts. The basic rules of common courtesy are always in effect. Treat others in the same way you would like to be treated. How to properly conduct oneself at a concert begins with this well-known truth. Read on for other tips that will make your concert experience a memorable one.

1. Dress Appropriately

While you are certainly welcome to wear fancy duds to the city's Annual Pop Symphony Concert in the Park, be advised that you might very well be turned away at the door of the more formal indoor concert if you arrive wearing shorts and a t-shirt. At the very least, if allowed to enter, you will likely feel woefully under-dressed. If you are unsure about what to wear, err on the side of caution. Wear your "Sunday best," so to speak. A simple, modest dress for women and dress slacks, dress shirt, coat and tie for men are appropriate for most indoor concerts. Also, out of respect for those who are seated near you, it is very considerate to go easy on strong perfume, cologne, after-shave, or hair products.

2. Knowing Concert Protocol

If you do not receive a program upon entering any concert, recital, or semi-formal to formal musical event, then by all means ask for one. Programs at such events not only have the order of musical pieces, they usually have guidelines concerning applause, if and when cameras are permitted to be in use, the location of emergency exits, scheduled intermissions, and announcements of any post-concert festivities.

3. Special Concert Courtesies

Whether you are a seasoned concertgoer or a first time attendee, kindly heed the following guidelines. Make sure all cell phones, pagers, and blackberries are turned off. Keep whispering to a minimum, and refrain from any loud talking. If your children are in attendance, do insist that electronics be left at home. This includes any gaming systems, phones, and especially devices requiring the use of earphones. If you are sick, consider not attending. If you are overly tired, consider bowing out as well. Sneezing, nose-blowing, coughing fits, and snoring are certain spoilers for anyone within earshot. If you should experience an unexpected coughing jag, exit the auditorium as quietly and quickly as possible. And finally, if anyone in your party cannot behave in an appropriate manner, remove them from the concert hall as quickly as possible without causing a scene.

In the event that those sitting near you are not so knowledgeable in the area of concert etiquette, sometimes a kind word or a smile and a shush will turn things around. If not, it is certainly acceptable to ask an usher for help with the matter. Attending concerts in any venue can and should be a most enjoyable affair. Equip yourself with these pointers and you will be well on your way towards making magnificent musical memories!

Learn more about this author, Shelley G..
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