Peter Harzem wrote:

>It seems to me that the movements of a work involve essential continuity,
>both in the work itself and in the effects on the listener.  Intervals
>between them do (don/t they) provide moments for reflection, continuity,
>etc.  Applause in those intervals would be an intrusion, an unwelcome
>disruption of all that.  One of the precious practices that survive, even
>if precariously, in classical music performances (but few, if any, other
>situations) is regard for others' feelings, comfort, etc.  This, I believe,
>is something that needs to be protected as jealously as possible.

Indeed; there is a good reason why many singers specifically ask the
audience to wait with the applause until the last song in a group (cycle,
etc.).  But apparently some listeners believe that their boundless joy, no
matter how disruptive for others, is more important than anything else.

-Margaret Mikulska