Michael Brown protesters delay symphony performance

Saturday’s St. Louis Symphony performance was briefly interrupted by Michael Brown protestors.

After intermission and before the symphony played “A German Requiem” in its all-Brahms concert, protestors scattered throughout the audience sang “Justice for us all.”

Protestors unfurled three banners from the balcony of Powell Hall, and chanted “black lives matter” before leaving.

Protesters interrupt @slso performance. #Ferguson pic.twitter.com/GnWbpxxSgq

— stevegiegerich (@stevegiegerich) October 5, 2014

@seancollinsstl One banner read "Requiem for Mike Brown"

— garrick_s (@garrick_s) October 5, 2014

The performance was met with applause from several audience members and the orchestra.

The protestors were singing and then went into a chant "Black lives matter!" @slso musicians acknowledged the protestors by applauding.

— RobertBPetersonIII (@RobertPeterson3) October 5, 2014

St Louis Symphony performance of the Brahms Requiem interrupted by group chant of "Black lives matter." Audience at Powell applauds.

— David Johns (@davidjohns11) October 5, 2014

A small paper heart, reading “Requiem for Michael Brown,” was left behind.

Left by .@slso protesters (who incidentally had beautiful voices) after interrupting Brahms Requiem #Ferguson pic.twitter.com/eRrtCRkJjX

— stevegiegerich (@stevegiegerich) October 5, 2014

St. Louis Symphony Vice President for External Affairs Adam Crane said all of the protesters had tickets for Saturday’s performance.

About 50 people (ticketed) were demonstrating re: Ferguson before Brahms Requiem. We apologize for any disruption. @slso @stlpublicradio

— Adam Crane (@adamcrane) October 5, 2014

Michael Brown was shot and killed Aug. 9 in Ferguson by police Officer Darren Wilson. A grand jury is hearing evidence and will decide whether to indict Wilson.