Guidelines for Student Performance

Teachers of students performing in any of the EVMTA Recitals are responsible for instructing their students in stage deportment.

APPEARANCE

Should be neat and in no way detract from the performance.

Boys should wear shirts and ties, vests, sweater or coat depending on the formality of the recital.

Girls should wear skirts or dresses that are not too short.

Hair should be arranged in a way so that it does not hang in the face.

PERFORMANCE ENTRANCE

Approach the performing area graciously; not too fast nor too slow, arms at sides.

Acknowledge any applause with a smile and a bow (nod), eyes down.

PERFORMANCE

Take time in starting. Adjust the bench, find the correct pedal, think before you start.

Feet on floor, not crossed or wound around bench leg.

No gum or candy chewing.

Remain expressionless if errors occur.

If memory lapses occur, try to go on, skipping ahead if necessary. Do not keep up fruitless efforts if recall is gone. Simply exit as gracefully as possible.

No unnecessary movements of mouth, head, hands, etc.

If more than one number is performed, take time between them.

PERFORMANCE EXIT

At the completion of the performance, replace hands in lap, stand up at the front of the piano (instrumentalists need not do this.)

Acknowledge any applause with a smile and a bow (nod), eyes down.

Leave performing area graciously; not too fast nor too slow, arms at sides.

ALWAYS acknowledge your audience.

PHOTOS

Should not be taken during a performance (can distract the performer).

May be taken early before the recital or after the recital.

IN ADDITION

Allow yourself plenty of time to arrive and “get settled” before the performance.

If a student wants to try out the performance piano before the performance, arrive early enough to do so. This is not to be done while the audience is gathering.

Plan on attending the entire recital as an advantage to yourself and a courtesy to your fellow performers.