Playing devil's advocate for a moment - although in principle I agree with all you applause-haters - we have to accept that the majority of releases today are of live performances and for some listeners applause is integral to the record of a live experience. That especially applies to opera, which has a very different etiquette from symphonies; whereas applause between movements ist streng verboten and considered ignorant, it is expected and welcomed when the audience voices approval after a fine aria - indeed, for us operaphiles that might be part of the excitement of a live recording when a singer has excelled.

Having said all that, I am as ready as you to string up the prat who has to be the first to bellow "Bravo!" even before the final notes have dies away.