Actually, the teaching of what were once commonly held manners is not
nearly as commonplace anymore as it once was. For instance, there is a
fairly common-sense etiquette about attending concerts and recitals of
classical music and other non-amplified music: if, during the music, the
audience members are carrying on conversations, or  their cell-phones are
ringing, they cannot possibly be LISTENING, and other audience members will
be disturbed. Listening is the POINT of attending such concerts now, (even
if there were occasions in the 18th and 19th centuries when even classical
music events could become rowdy). Yet, at most of the concerts I attend
each year--sometimes over 30 events in an academic year--there are people
who do not observe these common-sense manners. Perhaps it is a new
experience for them; perhaps they have attended pop concerts at which the
music is so loud that they could shout during songs and it would not
matter. Music Appreciation texts and teachers usually offer some guidance
about this, but clearly it does not always sink in.

It is true that in differing cultural situations, appropriate responses
vary widely. In many jazz events, hoots and applause after a solo, while
the music is still going, is the norm. In some churches, the congregation
feels comfortable shouting out in agreement, offering encouragement to the
speaker of the day.

Appropriate (?) behavior is sometimes determined by the nature of the event
and the tradition of the event.

What is the tradition of commencement at UTC, and how might that tradition
be honored, while still welcoming expressions of joy and
pride?  Commencement is NOT the same as a competitive sporting event.



Jonathan B. McNair, DMA
UC Foundation Assistant Prof. of Music Theory and Composition
Director, Music Technology Center
Cadek Dept. of Music
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga