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Many teachers know how difficult running a recital can be as you are the complete authority figure with all of your nervous, and excited students in the same room! However, not only do you have to keep your students in line, you have to keep their parents and siblings and other guests following your rules and keep your own sanity at the same time. Many find this task overwhelming (join the club!) and we hope our advice can help you run a smooth, organized recital.
Many problems arise because people feel it is a family-friendly event and don't realize the amount of distraction they cause the performer. Some basic rules need to be set and individuals can add their own as other difficulties arise.
- Talking should not be tolerated during a performance ...AT ALL. This should be common courtesy and strictly enforced.
- No flash photography during a performance. Allow for photo opportunities at the end of the recital.
- No one is allowed out of their seat during a performance, and if they leave the room they should not come back in until a performer is done.
- Make sure all cell phones are turned off.
- Applause should be held in check until the performer stands up and takes a bow, as many multi-movement pieces have pauses between sections.
- If you pass out programs ask everyone to keep them quiet, don't fan themselves etc., as the rustling noise can be quite distracting, and/or limit the programs to one per family with extras available after the recital.
- If young children or babies are to attend, please let parents know they must leave the room if they start to cry and all children need to remain in their seat at all times.