I just returned home from the Sheridan Hill winter concert that was performed at the Clarence High School. It was a wonderful concert given by the fifth-grade orchestra from all elementary schools, Sheridan Hill Band, fourth-grade chorus and fifth-grade chorus.

One could tell how hard all these children and their teachers had worked by their level of enthusiasm and the quality of the performance. Having lived in Clarence for more than 40 years, we have come to expect first-rate concerts like this. All three of our children participated in the wonderful music program that our district offers. Thanks go out to all the music staff and their support staff.

While appreciating the performance, I was appalled and embarrassed by many in the audience — hand-held devices everywhere, text-messaging and numerous side conversations. The absolutely worst behavior in my mind, however, was the mass exodus from the audience of many people when their child was finished performing.

Imagine the different feeling the orchestra had. They were first, compared to the fifth-grade chorus who sang to a half-empty auditorium because they were last.

I hate to use this phrase, but in my day, this didn’t happen. Everyone should have the good manners to remain seated until all performers have had a chance to sing or play. I can almost see and feel (former Clarence music teacher) Mr. Vehar’s disapproval if such behavior had happened in his day.

Again, thank you to the teachers, support staff and to the great students who provided a memorable evening. And to all of you who left throughout the performance, maybe next concert you might want to read the “Concert Etiquette” on the inside cover of your program, and remember, maybe next concert your child will be the last on the program.

Cathleen Meyers
Roll Road
Clarence Center