Meaning: The quote by Emanuel Ax, a renowned musician, addresses the unwritten rules and etiquette surrounding applause during musical performances. At its core, the quote suggests that if there were no prescribed guidelines for when to applaud, the audience would naturally know the appropriate moments to express their appreciation. This statement reflects the complex and often unspoken dynamics between performers and audiences in the world of music and the performing arts.

Applause has long been a customary form of expressing approval and admiration for a musical performance. However, the timing and frequency of applause during a concert or recital are subject to certain conventions and traditions that have developed over time. These conventions can vary across different genres of music, cultural contexts, and historical periods.

In classical music, for example, there are established norms regarding when it is appropriate to applaud. The general rule is to refrain from clapping between movements of a multi-movement work, such as a symphony or a concerto, in order to preserve the continuity and integrity of the musical piece. This practice is intended to maintain the immersive and uninterrupted experience for both the performers and the audience.

On the other hand, in jazz and popular music concerts, applause is often encouraged after individual solos or impressive musical passages. The spontaneity and improvisational nature of these genres allow for more interactive and dynamic audience participation, including clapping and cheering at various points throughout the performance.

The quote by Emanuel Ax implies that the audience's instincts for when to applaud are inherently attuned to the nuances of the music being performed. It suggests that these instincts are often overridden or inhibited by the conventions and expectations imposed by traditional concert etiquette. Ax's assertion challenges the notion that strict adherence to established rules of applause is necessary for a genuine and meaningful interaction between performers and their audience.

In recent years, there has been ongoing debate within the classical music community about the rigidity of concert etiquette and the need for greater inclusivity and spontaneity in live performances. Some musicians and music scholars advocate for a more relaxed approach to audience behavior, arguing that excessive formality can create barriers to engagement and enjoyment for concertgoers, especially those who may be attending a classical music event for the first time.

Conversely, proponents of traditional concert etiquette emphasize the importance of respecting the integrity of the music and the performers' artistic intentions. They argue that observance of established norms, including when to applaud, contributes to a focused and reverent atmosphere that enhances the overall concert experience.

Ultimately, the quote by Emanuel Ax raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between performers and their audience, the role of tradition in shaping audience behavior, and the potential for evolving concert etiquette to better reflect the changing dynamics of contemporary musical performances.

In conclusion, the quote "If there were no rules about when to applaud, we in the audience would have the right response almost always" by Emanuel Ax encapsulates the nuanced interplay between established concert etiquette and the instinctual reactions of audience members. It prompts reflection on the evolving nature of audience participation in musical performances and the ongoing dialogue about the role of tradition and spontaneity in shaping the concert experience.