Madam, - I have never before been to a concert that was so punctuated by coughing as the recent recital by the renowned pianist Lang Lang.
It started at the beginning of the performance and continued, unabated, throughout. It seemed obvious to me that Lang Lang was troubled by these constant interruptions. And for the 80 per cent of the audience who managed to contain their little tickles, it was extremely disturbing. It is just so rude to show such little regard for one's fellow concert-goers and for the performer.
I have every sympathy for those who are suddenly afflicted by a genuine coughing fit, but much of the noise is gratuitous throat-clearing. I never attend a concert in winter without a packet of lozenges. One can take a few out of the packet beforehand, so there is no danger of rustling should one suddenly feel the need.
Perhaps the National Concert Hall could add a mention of coughing to the pre-performance announcement about mobile phones? And perhaps they could seek sponsorship to distribute little packets of lozenges at each concert. - Yours, etc,
ELIZABETH HOOD,
Windsor Road,
Dublin 6.