Concert

A concert is a live musical performance presented in front of an audience. It may feature a solo artist, a chamber ensemble, a rock band, or an orchestra, and the program can consist of one or more sets, sometimes with an intermission. Concerts occur in diverse venues and settings, from intimate clubs and recital halls to arenas, stadiums, and outdoor stages.

The modern concert tradition arose from earlier public performances and the growth of organized orchestras and concert venues in the 18th through 20th centuries. Over time the format expanded to include pop, electronic, and world music, as well as large-scale festivals and touring productions.

Producing a concert involves booking artists, securing a venue, and coordinating logistics such as sound reinforcement, lighting, staging, and ticketing. Technical staff, including audio engineers and stage crews, support performers during sound checks and performances. Promotion, security, and accessibility planning are also important parts of production.

Venues vary in size and acoustics. Concert halls prioritize clarity and balance, clubs emphasize immediacy and amplification, arenas accommodate large crowds, and outdoor stages adapt to weather. Festivals present multiple acts over several days and may include stages with differing genres.

Live performance centers on interpretation, spontaneity, and audience interaction. Set lists, encores, and audience response contribute to the experience. Recordings and broadcasts of concerts are common, governed by licensing and rights.

Digital technology has enabled live streams and on-demand video, making concerts accessible beyond the venue. Hybrid formats combine in-person attendance with virtual participation. Concerns such as safety, accessibility, and sustainability have become increasingly important in concert planning.

Concerts remain a central element of contemporary music culture, linking performers with audiences across genres.