05/25/2026
Wondering when to clap at a classical concert? You're not alone! We've got some cues you can use to applaud with confidence, so you can relax and enjoy the music.
CONCERT ETIQUETTE: WHEN TO CLAP
New audience members might be surprised by the infrequent applause they hear during symphonies, oratorios, recitals, and other classical music performances.
The prevailing practice is to refrain from clapping after each movement or piece, and to save your applause until the end of the larger work.
It can get a little confusing, though, when the program features groupings of short pieces. And what about intermission?!
If you’re feeling unsure, here are a few cues you can use to determine if it’s an appropriate time to clap:
👏 Intermission
👏 Conductor turns to audience
👏 Artists take a bow
👏 The end of the concert... but you probably knew that one!
Having said all that, these are simply guidelines: nobody is going to be kicked out for politely clapping at the ‘wrong’ time!
And while some folks feel the silence allows them to better enjoy the experience, others prefer to respond authentically when the music moves them.
One final thought: this practice of holding applause is relatively new, dating back to the early 20th century. Baroque and classical audiences were much more rowdy, and treated the music with far less reverence... eating, drinking, talking, and even playing cards during concerts.
And while we wouldn’t take things THAT far, it’s good to know that anyone who claims “it’s always been done that way” is simply mistaken.
The bottom line? It’s all a matter of taste and preference. Focus on the music, and enjoy the show!
Now take what you've learned, and come join us on May 29 & 30 for our final performance of the season! Tickets available now:
https://chorusinspira.ca/home/2025-26-season/bach-vivaldi/?utm_name=sked&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_content=sked_69fba465d7817914dc79c71e
