According to reports, the Berlin-based orchestra had to stop its performance for a short period of time, along with pianist Jo Seong-jin, when noises began echoing around the concert hall soon after a rendition of the first movement of Ravel’s piano concerto ended. (Image: Kumho Asiana Cultural Foundation)
SEOUL, Nov. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – Criticism is mounting against misbehaving concertgoers at the Berliner Philharmonic’s concert last Sunday at Seoul Arts Center, following reports that some spectators failed to mute their phones while another was caught secretly recording the show.
According to reports, the Berlin-based orchestra had to stop its performance for a short period of time, along with pianist Jo Seong-jin, when noises began echoing around the concert hall soon after a rendition of the first movement of Ravel’s piano concerto ended.
Though the concert soon resumed and the artists regained their composure, it was learned that one member of the audience was caught recording the performance before the audio file was played loudly by accident.
When the first part of the concert ended, complaints flooded in, with ticket holders condemning the lack of manners during the concert that created a disorderly atmosphere.
One industry official said it was a ‘facepalm’ moment, and called the incident a ‘major disaster’, as being caught recording and having the filed played by accident is seen by many as worse than having one’s phone ring during a concert.
Criticism ensued online after the much-anticipated classical music concert was plagued by inconsiderate behavior, general rudeness and a lack of understanding for others.
In addition to the controversial recording incident, applause after each performance as a show of recognition of the music, as well as audible Kakao Talk notifications were among the most complained about behaviors during the concert.
According to an official at Seoul Arts Center, an additional announcement on concert manners and etiquette was played between concerts, while the audience member who secretly recorded the concert was asked to delete the file.
As it’s not the first time that a lack of manners during a classical music concert has been reported, Seoul Arts Center has announced plans to launch a major campaign to raise awareness of basic manners during concerts, beginning next month.
“We plan to distribute a significant number of leaflets explaining behaviors that need to be avoided during a concert, including taking pictures, applause between performances, recording and videotaping, as well as an age limit,” a Seoul Arts Center official said.
Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)
