Things to know if you're new to live music
Here's a little bit of a guide to the etiquette and unspoken things going on at a show or concert that new folks might now know or understand.
First thing to know, the line will probably be long to get into the venue if this is a popular band. If the show is sold out, either expect to either arrive extremely early, wait in a long line, or come closer to showtime. Each of these approaches will yield a very different experience.
If you arrive early you'll have time inside the venue, you can get up near the stage without a fight and you will be able to get a great spot to see the show. The further back in line you are, the harder it will be to get a good spot to see without having to fight your way through a crowd of people. If you decide to go with the fashionably late option, just know you might not be able to see very well.
What is "Punk Time?" A lot of places push the show back at least an hour from the times that are posted. Some venues do this to keep that captive audience of snackers and drinkers for a little longer, and rack up bigger bar tabs. Sometimes there is a technical difficulty that takes time to work out before the show. Sometimes people just run late. Lots of folks actually run their shows on time, though! So you kind of have to figure out what kind of music scene you're in locally if you don't want to wait around or miss start times.
There are two strategies to go with if you are at the back and want a better spot. You can work your way up to the front by waiting for people to leave, which is pretty easy to do and isn't too inconsiderate depending on how you execute. The other option is to be a complete selfish asshole and push through the already tight crowd to get closer to the front. Everyone will hate you for doing this, but lots of assholes make that choice.
If you're going to a rock and roll show or concert you need to know about the mosh pit. Softer sounding bands usually don't have these show up, and if it's a seated concert then there's not any space. Mosh pits break out in front of the stage, usually a few rows of people back. The general rule is to pick people up if they fall and to help people get away from it if they aren't wanting to participate. Stay off to the sides or a little further back to stay safe. There will be some pushing and bumping. They get more intense the heavier the music.
A choice that must be made: do you want merch? If your budget aligns with your desire to take home a tee shirt or poster, you'll have to brave the merch line. Often times you can get in and get your stuff pretty easily if you arrive early for the show. You can't always depend on the merch being available for sale early in the evening, though. If you wait until the performance is mostly over, you can usually grab your goodies and get out of the area before the mob of fans is also leaving the parking lot or hailing rideshare at the same time as you. If you wait until the performance and encores are done you might be waiting quite a while to make your purchase. If you want to hit that line early do bring a tote with you, because you're going to be holding onto it through the whole show.
Speaking of the encore, how do you know for sure when the band isn't coming back out to play another song? If the house lights are up and the band and the staff are unplugging the equipment the show is over. If they don't turn up the house lights, and the equipment is still on stage and plugged in, they will likely be right back to play another song or three.
Don't heckle the band. Don't push people or act like a dick. If you want to smoke or vape & it is indoors or not allowed, wait till the official band goes on (and blow it to the floor if you don't want to alert security to your position). Be aware if you stand right in front of someone's direct view of the stage. Don't blow smoke in people's faces. Have awareness of the space around you. Be kind and helpful to others, and be willing to get help if you see someone faint. Yeah, that's happened at least 5 times at shows I've been to over the years, including twice just last month. Take a shower before you go. Eat a meal before you go. Make sure you're in the right physical condition to go and stand for hours on end, and if you need help ask for accommodations from the venue.
Have fun, be safe, and welcome to the live music scene!