There’s nothing quite like the energy of live music. The booming sound, the lights, the collective euphoria of a crowd singing along—it’s an experience that a studio album simply can’t replicate. Whether you’re a first-time concert-goer or a seasoned veteran, a little preparation and mindfulness can turn a good night into an unforgettable one.
Here are a few tips to help you maximize your enjoyment at your next show.
Before You Go: Set the Stage
The key to a stress-free concert experience starts long before the house lights dim.
- Prioritize Comfort: You’ll likely be standing, dancing, and moving for hours, so wear comfortable shoes. For your clothing, dress for the venue and the weather—you might be surprised how warm a packed indoor venue can get.
- Plan Your Logistics: Check the venue’s policies on bags, banned items, and food/drinks. Also, have a plan for arrival and departure, whether it’s finding parking, using public transport, or coordinating a ride-share. Arriving early lets you grab merchandise, find your spot, and soak in the pre-show atmosphere without rushing.
- Protect Your Hearing: Live music is loud! Invest in a pair of high-fidelity earplugs. They protect your hearing without sacrificing sound quality, allowing you to enjoy the music at a comfortable volume.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Eat a proper meal beforehand and stay hydrated throughout the night. Many venues offer water stations or allow sealed bottles, and your body will thank you for the energy and hydration needed for singing and dancing.
During the Show: Be Present
The moment the lights go down and the band walks out, remember why you’re there: to experience the music.
- Embrace the Moment: While it’s tempting to record every song, try to strike a balance. Take a quick photo or a short video, but then put your phone away. Immerse yourself in the performance, the sound, and the connection with the artist. The memories you create by just being there are often the most meaningful.
- Let Loose: Don’t be self-conscious. Sing along (within reason!), dance, cheer, and let the music move you. Everyone else is focused on the band, not judging your moves. The more you engage with the music and the atmosphere, the richer your experience will be.
- Respect the Performance: Appreciate the live creation. A live performance may sound different from the studio version—that’s part of the fun! Artists may change up arrangements, include new material, or play deep cuts. Go in with an open mind and appreciate the energy of the live version.
Concert Etiquette: Good Vibes Only
Your experience, and the experience of those around you, is enhanced by courtesy and respect.
- Be Mindful of Others: If you’re tall, try to avoid standing directly in front of someone much shorter than you. If you need to move through the crowd, do so politely, saying “excuse me” as you pass.
- Phone Etiquette: Keep your phone’s screen brightness low if you are recording or taking photos. An overly bright screen is distracting in the dark. Better yet, as mentioned before, try to limit your recording time!
- Mind Your Space: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in standing-room-only areas. Avoid pushing or throwing elbows aggressively, and keep your drinks steady to prevent spills.
- Clap When Appropriate (Know Your Genre): At rock, pop, or electronic shows, feel free to cheer and clap after every song. At a classical performance, however, it’s customary to hold your applause until the very end of an entire piece (often indicated by multiple “movements” in the program). When in doubt, follow the conductor or wait for others to start.
A concert is a shared journey—a temporary collective of fans celebrating a love for music. By planning ahead and being a respectful, fully present audience member, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. Enjoy the show!