Coughing - If you have a cough/cold, bring cough drops to the performance or pick some up in the lobby. San Francisco Performances offers complimentary cough drops, provided by Ricola. Unwrap them BEFORE the music starts. If you must cough, wait until the end of a movement or during a loud section of the music. Putting a handkerchief over your mouth can also help muffle the cough. Finally, if you continue coughing, discreetly excuse yourself for a few moments while you get a drink of water or another cough drop.

Unwrapping anything, especially candies and cough drops - It's okay to suck on candy or chew gum during a concert, especially if it prevents you from coughing. However, the sound of unwrapping such items can be just as distracting as coughing itself, so make sure to do all of your unwrapping before the music begins.

Whispering/Talking - Even the quietest whisper can be heard in a resonant concert hall. Try to refrain from commenting on the music until the end of the piece. It will give you more to talk about at intermission!

"Shushing" - Although it is annoying when other audience members are talking or whispering during a performance, it is equally as distracting to hear someone "shush" them. Sit tight and hope they finish what they have to say quickly.

Beepers/cell phones/digital watches - With all the new technological equipment available these days, it is easy to forget to turn off your cell phone or beeper. However, there is nothing more distracting than a loud ringing during the middle of a concert.

DON'T FORGET!

Clapping - Wait to clap until the whole piece is over. Most musicians prefer that you not clap in between movements as it can interrupt the mood and flow of the piece of music as a whole.