I read this on another forum and thought it worth sharing.
Band or Orchestra Etiquette:
- Any warming up onstage should be with consideration for your colleagues (and the audience!), i.e. refrain from playing at full volume. If you must play through something at full volume before the performance (especially brass), find a spot offstage.
- If your pre-rehearsal warmup routine consists of playing a flashy concerto, consider changing it to a routine that does not endanger your life, career, and friendships.
- Before concerts, limit (or preferably, eliminate) your "motivic practicing" (playing through passages of the piece about to be performed).
- Tuning should be done quickly and efficiently. You should have already checked your tuning with a tuner in advance, so any needed adjustments after the the tuning note will be minor. Refrain from unnecessary noodling during tuning.
- Be mindful that the audience can see you, even if you are in the back of the group. They will definitely notice if you yawn, look bored, or share a conspiratorial look with a colleague. It is more enjoyable for the audience when we look engaged with our performance.
- The bows are the time for us to allow the audience to show their appreciation. Show them mutual respect by facing them and SMILING! This is not the time to rearrange your music or talk to your colleagues.
- During solo bows, even if you are displeased with your performance, see above re smiling. Most groups do "progressive" solo bows, where players remain standing after their solo bow as the conductor recognizes other soloists, and eventually the entire group.
- If the conductor addresses you in rehearsal, make eye contact, and acknowledge that you understand any instructions you may be given.
- Do not tap your foot. Ever. It distracts those near you.
- Do not conduct along with the music. Not only is it distracting, conductors could interpret it as passive-aggressive behavior.
- Never cross your legs onstage during a performance.
- Questions to the conductor should be made by the principal of the section.
- Refrain from wearing perfume, cologne, Axe body spray, etc. during rehearsals and performances. Maintain good body hygiene (don't reek).