Orchestral Etiquette
THREE GENERAL GUIDELINES
- BE PREPARED
- LOOK INTERESTED
- BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS
Rehearsal
- Prepare your part beforehand.
- Arrive early and be warmed up.
- Ask questions only during breaks.
- Bring a pencil.
- Cover your yawn.
- Maintain a healthy hygiene.
- Don’t tune loudly.
- Don’t turn around to see who is playing.
- Don’t tap your foot or move around too much.
- Don’t cross your legs.
- Don’t wear perfume.
Being a Good Neighbor
- Sit quietly.
- Use your best judgment on intonation, balance, attacks, and releases.
- Know the count.
- Don’t turn around to see who is playing.
- Don’t make noise while others are playing.
Performance Behavior
- All Rehearsal behavior applies.
- Don’t make a face no matter who makes a mistake, including yourself.
- Bows:
- Upon entering the stage area, remain standing until the whole orchestra sits.
- Be attentive during the bows in case you are asked to stand alone or with your section.
Relating to the Conductor
- Mind the conductor as much as possible.
- When asked to play something differently, your answer should always be “Sure!”
- Address the conductor as “Maestro” unless you’re asked to do differently.
- If the conductor asks to see you in his office or dressing room it is a good idea to ask the personnel manager to come along.
- Don’t keep playing after the conductor stops.
SOURCES
- Orchestra Etiquette or, How to Keep Your Job After You Have Won It, by Elaine Douvas
- http://www.gocmo.org/rehearsal-etiquette/
- Sebastian Chaves Vargas, Principal Bassoonist
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