Entertaining and Quieting Small Children During Classical Choir Performances

Classical music is often seen as an exclusive and sophisticated art form, but this exclusivity can sometimes push smaller children away. It's unfortunate that many people are intolerant of having children in a "high brow" setting like a classical choir performance. How can future music enthusiasts fall in love with classical music if they are not permitted to enjoy it as kids? The tension between maintaining an exclusive environment and welcoming all music lovers is a concern that can be addressed through more kid-friendly initiatives.

The Solution from Hilary Hahn

Violinist Hilary Hahn recognized this issue and developed a unique solution. Instead of banning children from performing venues, she initiated concerts that are specifically designed for and welcoming to young children. Her approach not only encourages the next generation of music lovers but also makes the concert experience enjoyable for everyone involved. More musicians and venues should follow her lead to create more family-friendly and kid-centric classical performances.

Tips for Keeping a Small Child Quiet and Entertained

Selecting the right performance and timing can significantly help in keeping a small child quiet and entertained. Considering leaving the concert halfway through, perhaps during the intermission, can be beneficial as it allows children to satisfy their needs while minimizing disruptions.

Pre-Performance Preparation

Food: Ensure the child has eaten before the performance to prevent hunger-related complaints during the show. This simple step can make a big difference in their behavior and comfort level.

Toilets: Take the child to the bathroom immediately before the performance to reduce the need to leave during the show. This also helps in maintaining the atmosphere of the venue.

Education: Introduce your child to classical music through videos and discussions. Show them how different instruments contribute to the performance and engage them in this experience to spark their interest.

Engaging the Child During the Performance

Create a fun and interactive atmosphere by playing music-related games and quizzes. Point out the performers' positions and names of the instruments. This can make the experience more enjoyable and less tiring for both you and the child.

Encourage communication but set clear expectations. Explain the importance of being quiet and teach your child to whisper if they need to talk.

Accepting the Reality

Be prepared for unexpected situations. Small children, even the well-behaved ones, have limited attention spans and specific needs. You must be willing to handle distractions with patience and understanding. Children might cry, express discomfort, or misbehave due to their limited social skills and sensory overload. Most importantly, be ready to exit the concert hall if necessary. This decision does not reflect a lack of respect; it's simply a practical solution.

Conclusion: It's crucial to remember that children are just that—children. Expecting them to sit for hours without any issue goes against their developmental stage. Adult-only concerts make sense, but there should be an equal emphasis on creating welcoming environments for children as well. Through thoughtful planning and understanding, we can make classical performances accessible and enjoyable for all.