Q. What if I need to cough during the music?

A. Everyone gets the urge to cough now and then; it's an unavoidable problem. Here are ways to avoid coughing during the performance:

1. Be sure to visit the water fountain in the lobby before the concert, and at intermission.

2. If you have a cold, take some cough medicine in advance and bring lozenges with you. Make sure that you unwrap the lozenges beforehand, because they make noise as well.

3. If you absolutely can't restrain yourself, try to wait for the end of a movement. If you can't, bury your cough in a loud passage of music and use a handkerchief or scarf to muffle the sound. If you have to cough more than a couple of times, it's perfectly acceptable to quietly exit the concert hall. Your fellow listeners will probably appreciate your concern for their listening experience.

Q. What should I do with my cell phone, beepers, and other electronic devices?

A. To ensure the comfort of those seated around you, we request all cellular phones and beepers to be turned off or, if essential, set to vibrate.

Q. Can I take pictures?

A. The Monroe Symphony and licensing agencies prohibit the recording Symphony performances via camera, cell phone, camcorder, audio tape, or with any other electronic device.

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