I don't think the "problem' of the standardized standing ovation is limited to small orchestras. I don't know if the original poster was speaking of an American orchestra, but I bet he was. I think this is an American phenomenon. Perhaps not in New York or L.A., but certainly in Atlanta, where I live, the standing ovation seems to be de rigueur. I totally sympathize, as one sort of ends up feeling like a curmudgeon, or certainly like a grump, by sitting firmly when all about you leap to their feet and shout bravo. But if one does that every time, what will you do when it is truly extraordinary? Run laps around the concert hall? High-five your neighbors and throw your cushion? I wonder how those who play in the orchestras feel about this. Do they really appreciate being ovated (?) every time? Would they like to see some discernment and control, so that when people leap to their feet (as I have done on some occasions) it truly means something? Miguel Muelle [log in to unmask] http://mmuelle.home.mindspring.com