We aim to “change the conversation about pop culture,” namely by presenting popular music as a form of art, rather than entertainment alone. We see our diverse series of live musical performances as contributing to the holistic education provided at �ƴ��ɸ�����̳.

One of the ways we attempt to enrich our concerts is by inviting musicians and our audience to stay after the show for a conversation about the music we just witnessed. This is not a meet-and-greet, autograph signing, or celeb gossip press conference. Rather, this is a rare opportunity for us all to crack the facade of celebrity, and for our students and the public to converse with an artist about their work.

One question we ask each artist is “how can we be a good audience?” Live performance is a two-way relationship. Audience demeanor greatly affects performers. We believe that an audience is not merely a passive observer, but rather have a role to play. Different artists, presenting diverse styles of music, of course, have different hopes, desires, needs, and expectations for their audiences to meet and reciprocate.

Calvin audiences are known for typically being quiet and reverent, which is often a gracious response. However, lively music can and should evoke dancing and movement. Regardless, we encourage audiences to be earnest, open, and attentive, whatever the performance calls for. The performer is likely asking you to follow your natural response, which can be a demonstration of community and empathy. Get into it.

The most frequent subject mentioned by our artists with regards to audience behavior is, not surprisingly, the ubiquity of cell phones. Most artists are happy to have you whip your phone out to capture a keepsake or two from the night. But it occurs to many of them that in viewing a live concert through a tiny screen, you are not fully present with the experience, nor are you getting your ticket’s worth.

Consider paying the artist the same attention you’d offer a friend talking to you, playing for you, addressing you directly. Approach a live performance as the unique, here-and-now-only experience that it is.

Things that are barred from events

• Flash photography
• Alcohol
• Drugs
• Weapons
• Anything else you think is probably banned

Tips

• from Paste