Where does the tradition of bowing after a performance come from?

Question

Why do we bow after a performance? Where does this tradition come from? For how long has performers been doing this?Maybe there is some sort of interesting anecdote about this.

Answer 1

What a fabulous question! Although bowing after a performance has been an accepted practice since the plays of ancient Greece, it was normalized by pianist Fanz Liszt who had a penchant for seeking as much attention as possible. He was also the first pianist to display the piano from the side, so that the audience could see his excellent fingerings on the keys (and his handsome profile). Liszt believed the bow was another opportunity to be in the spotlight and have his profile on display, so he bowed after every performance and even when coming on stage between pieces. This practice has expanded into the etiquette we use today.