Dos and Don'ts

DO...

Take practicing seriously and prepare as one would for an important recital, concert, or performance.
Construct a program over 20 minutes in length comprised of appealing, light, and uplifting music.
Bring music on performance day, even if playing from memory!
Review ECCCC Lobby Music Guidelines and additional recommended criteria on this site to ensure eligibility to perform. Please call the ECCC Volunteer Services at (434) 924-5251 or email volunteerservices@virginia.edu with any questions concerning the Lobby Music Guidelines.
Make a performance reservation. While drop-in performances are permitted, a reservation may contribute to peace of mind on performance day, and allow for a musician to play for over 20 minutes (drop-in musicians have a 20 minute limit on performance time).
Be polite, respectful, and courteous towards everyone. Remember that musicians are volunteers, and are there to serve.
Expect distractions to occur during performance.

Make dramatic changes in mood and/or style from piece to piece in a program.
Arrive late on performance day. Scheduled performers who are 15 minutes late or more will lose their performance reservation.
Disregard or ignore requests to play softer, change or end a piece, or stop music altogether. The patients', families', and staff's comfort take priority under all circumstances. If faced with a negative response to music (that cannot be resolved with a reasonable adjustment to music) or request to stop the performance, a musician should consult staff at the volunteer desk for directions on how to proceed.
Perform if unprepared. If music during performance is falling apart (and taking time to regroup or calm nerves does not address the issue), be considerate of those listening and consider stopping the performance and returning at another time.

Kate Tamarkin