A hearty RIGHT AWN! goes to Michael Morgan, the charismatic conductor of the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra.
Just after intermission last night, right before the orchestra began playing Elgar’s Enigma Variations, Maestro Morgan addressed the audience and said something to the effect of, “We are fortunate to have such an appreciative audience tonight. Because our next piece consists of ten or twelve different parts, we ask that you wait until the end to show your appreciation.”
Yes, my friends, he was politely telling folks “DON’T APPLAUD BETWEEN THE MOVEMENTS,” as that is precisely what was happening in the earlier part of the evening. There are mixed thoughts on whether the practice of not applauding is one of those social mores* that some say are antiquated.
Regardless of how you might feel about it, the Maestro got his point across and made the audience actually feel good for what may or may not be a faux pas.
*”Social mores” reminds me of one of my favorite Far Side cartoons, the one with eels at a cocktail party — with the caption that says, “social morays.”
The Sac Rag 
I abbreviate “social mores” as “s’mores”, which someone can never have enough of.
Unless someone is really fat.
But, in general, I approve of social mores, and I cry out for s’more!
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Embarrassingly enough, I never got that cartoon, until now. Thanks.
Lenny Bruce used to ask the audience not to applaud during his set. He claimed it threw off his rhythm. Quite a strange request for a comedian, but it just added to his dangerous image.
Why yes, I am rambling. I’ve had coffee. Funny thing coffee….
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