Sir, Ms Margaret Moran's letter about John Allen's review of Jose Cura's NCR concert (May 14th) raises a number of interesting points, some of which call for clarification.
She seems to think that The Irish Times operates a ban on the critical consideration of encores. There is no such ban. In fact, since becoming Music Critic of The Irish Times in 1986, I have drawn attention (usually favourable) to encores on over 100 occasions. And, contrary to the import of Ms Moran's letter, it is normal professional practice for encores to be every bit as carefully prepared and rehearsed as anything else in a concert.
As to the significance of a standing ovation the fact that the majority of humankind once thought the world to be flat never made it so. Yours, etc.,
