When Tomoko performs publicly, she is often given flowers. This gesture is a common one for musicians, and shows the audience’s appreciation for the music. Here are some details.
The tradition of giving musical performers started over 150
years ago in European aristocratic courts.
Choice of flowers.
- Long-stemmed red roses are the most traditional bouquet. Pink roses convey thanks, and yellow roses convey friendship.
- Irises are sometime given to young performers, and purple ones are especially favored because they connote admiration.
- Carnations are particularly favored because they last a long time. They represent pride and admiration.
- Lilies can be a somber choice, so as a performance bouquet should probably have bright colors, such as red, orange, yellow and pink which all convey imagination and aspiration.
· How to give flowers. It is best to check first with the performance venue to find out what protocols should be observed. Find out what the pianist’s favorite colors are or play it safe with red flowers. There are several ways to present the flowers: backstage afterwards, in a public area (even the stage if appropriate), having a staff person or event planner present them, or have a floral company deliver them. If you are going to several performances, you might give one flower after each performance, and a bouquet for the final performance.
But don’t give flowers BEFORE the performance as it tempts
fate and may bring bad luck!
