CONCERT DRESS GUIDELINES


The purpose of ensemble concert attire is to assist the listener in concentrating on the performance of the music. This is accomplished by minimizing the individuality of the performers on the stage through dress requirements that approach uniformity. While an issued uniform such as you may use at your school is the epitome of standardized dress, it is not possible for this group.

Therefore, these general suggestions are made:

         * Part of participation in an ensemble is "group contribution." Concerts, while important events, are not an appropriate occasion for you to express your individuality.

         * Your clothing should not attract attention to you. We should not attempt to impress others with what we wear. In fact, the exact opposite (no attention) is the goal.

            * Avoid use of perfumes/colognes.

The following dress guidelines are common to most collegiate- and professional-level groups (with the exception that men are generally required to own formal attire such as a tuxedo).

 Men:

  •  black pants

  •  black socks

  •  black dress shoes

  •  white dress shirt with a regular or wing-tip collar (preferably long-sleeved; Note: you must be able to button the top button around your neck)

  •  black bow tie

  • do NOT wear the tux jacket or suit coat, even if you own it.

 Women:

  • all black clothing (no patterns in fabric unless barely noticeable)

  • black long-sleeved blouse/shirt (to wrist; no half-sleeves, conservative necklines)

  • black pants (must be to ankle; no capris); long skirt instead of pants only if necessary

  • black dress shoes (flats or heels, but not sandals)

  • black/dark hosiery

  • black belt; simple buckle

  • no jewelry/pins on blouse; minimum of necklaces (must be subdued)

  • no bare midriffs

  • do not wear flip-flops!


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