Performance Etiquette for the Solo Instrumentalist

As a soloist in a recital, the main responsibility of the performance rests on your shoulders. It’s very important for the best musical experience possible that your stage deportment be orderly and rehearsed. It should also communicate respect and gratefulness to your audience.

▪ The soloist enters the stage first, followed by the accompanist. If the accompanist is female and the soloist make, the accompanist may enter alongside or closely following the soloist. If a page turner’s services are used for the recital, then he or she always enters the stage last.

▪ Enter the stage purposefully and energetically. While you needn’t run, you want to convey enthusiasm to your audience.

▪ Carry your instrument onto the stage in a natural position. Don’t sling it over your shoulder like a rifleman with his weapon, or engage in any other bizarre antics that detract from your upcoming performance.

▪ Stand or sit near the crook of the piano, then take a bow to acknowledge the applause.

▪ While it’s usually preferable to tune with the piano prior to coming on stage for the recital, if that was impossible then tune up quickly just before playing. Don’t keep the audience waiting too long.

▪ Communicate with your accompanist by making eye contact when you’re ready to begin.

▪ When you’re finished with a piece, lower your instrument to help the audience know you’re finished. Acknowledge the applause by bowing from the waist and counting to two. Look at your feet, not at the audience. If you’re female you may need to place your hand lightly on your neckline to keep it from gaping.

▪ After you bow, be sure to acknowledge your accompanist by extending your arm towards them to signal their turn to bow.

▪ At the conclusion of your performance, exit the stage purposefully. Your accompanist will follow, with the page turner (if used) picking up the rear of the procession.

▪ If you are performing a compete recital and the applause requires more bows, it is customary for the soloist to come out alone for the extra bows.

Etiquette is vital to ensure the best musical communication. Keep a positive attitude, be courteous to your audience, and play your heart out. That’s real music-making!