If you’ve ever found yourself in the heart of a heaving music festival, jostling to maintain your footing amidst a sea of enthusiastic concert-goers, you know that the experience can be exhilarating… or exasperating. Where do we draw the line between erratic euphoria and predictable pandemonium? Look no further, this is your ultimate guide to mastering concert manners. Not only will this enhance your own experience, but it will also help your fellow music lovers dance the night away in harmony. Gear up to explore a list of do’s and don’ts designed to create an atmosphere of accord at live events.
Think of this guide as your backstage pass to concert etiquette – whether you’re a seasoned festival attendee or hitting the live scene for the first time. From maintaining personal space to understanding crowd behavior, staying aware of these rules will ensure a more seamless, enjoyable atmosphere for all. Are you ready? Let’s hit the high note!
Among the chorus of people maintaining a respectful volume can be a tricky task, but it’s essential to the concert experience. Shouting ‘I love you’ to your favorite rockstar may seem like a good idea, but trust me, it’s not! Imagine trying to enjoy a serene melody drowned out by fanatical screamers. It’s a ‘no-no.’ Remember, everyone came to listen to the music, not a cacophonous audience.
And now, let’s address a biggie – the art of ‘moshing.’ Typically seen at rock and heavy metal concerts, a mosh pit is a form of physical expression and can be an exhilarating part of the concert experience. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone appreciates this ‘high-energy’ display. Always check to see if this kind of activity is accepted at the concert before diving in headfirst. If someone falls, help them up! Cultivating this respectful mosh pit etiquette creates a safer environment for everyone.
Do: Honor the Personal Bubble
Just as you would on a crowded subway, remember to respect the personal space of those around you. Experiencing your favorite band live can be exhilarating, but that excitement does not grant you the license to invade someone else’s space. It’s all about having a great time, and trust us, nobody ever had fun being squished against a guardrail or trampled by a dancing enthusiast. So, next time you’re jamming, take note of the people around you.
Don’t: Block the View with Your Phone
We all love capturing those memorable concert moments; however, for those standing behind you, your raised phone may be blocking their view of the stage. Spending the entire gig watching the performance through your screen not only ruins the experience for you, but it can also be annoying for other gig-goers. So, keep those photo sessions brief. After all, you came for the live music experience, right?
Do: Respect the Venue
Whether it’s a field in the middle of nowhere, a state-of-the-art arena, or someone’s basement, showing respect for the venue reflects well on the concert community as a whole. This includes making sure you’re not leaving a path of destruction, or trash, in your wake. Clubs and promoters are more likely to invite a respectful audience back than one that causes chaos. A simple rule to follow? Leave the place as you found it, or even better.
Don’t: Over-imbibe
We get it, a little liquid courage might help you let loose and fully enjoy the music. But remember, there’s a line between enjoyment and over-indulgence. The latter can lead to unruly behavior, ruining not just your evening, but also that of those around you. Remember, you’re here for the music and the vibes, not to give folks a story about ‘that person’ at the concert!
Bearing these etiquette pointers in mind, now you’re fully equipped to navigate the wonderful world of live music. So, are you ready to rock the next show like a true concert pro?
Picture this — you’re at a concert, the band’s hit single is about to start, the crowd is hyped, and then BAM! Someone’s tall hat obscures your view. So, the next etiquettes we’re going to discuss are on the list —
Don’t: Sing Along at Full Volume
We get it. You love the band. You know every lyric to every song. And being in the same room with your favorite artists can be exceedingly exciting. But remember, you’re not the one folks paid to hear sing. By all means, sing along and have fun, but be considerate of those around you who want to hear the band, not you. Concert etiquette isn’t just about your experience, it’s about everyone’s.
Do: Be Mindful of Your Apparel
Dressing up for shows is part of the fun — band t-shirts, funky costumes, eccentric hats — it’s all part of the show, right? Well, that’s true, but remember if your fun hat or hairdo blocks the view of the poor person behind you, that’s dropping the ball on your concert courtesy. Always remember, there’s a fine line between expressing oneself and impinging on another’s concert experience. Most outfits and accessories are good to go, just watch out for others.
With these extra concert etiquette tips in place, now you really ARE prepared to rock out with grace, respect, and a good measure of common sense. Happy show-going!
So, there you have it. We’ve charted the do’s and don’ts of concert decorum, and now it’s up to you to implement them. You’re armed with all the insights needed to upgrade your concert experience from average to extraordinary, not just for yourself, but for all the other music fanatics in the audience too. Just remember, respect and courtesy are as much a part of the show as the music itself. So, ready to set the stage for the next live event you attend? Go on, you’re on cue – dive into the crowd and let the rhythm take over, all while showcasing your newly polished concert manners. Happy grooving!
– Cory Watson
@thecorywatson