The word "house" preceded by forms of the verb "to get" or similar verbs, is a colloquial term referring to a type of applause that occurs during a musical performance, especially an exhibition of
jazz music. The musicians work to build incredible intensity, or other various, clever emotional connections to their audience, and when overcome by feelings of joy and appreciation, members may immediately and briefly
clap, whistle or shout, to
show their feelings of appreciation to the musician or musicians performing on stage. This type of display is inappropriate in various other settings, such as performances of traditional classical
music.
"The sax
player is playing a swingin'
solo, and I'm glad he's really getting house!"
"Benny Goodman's
solo was amazing, and throughout the three minutes he got so much house."
"Performing Thad Jones' sax soli brought a lot of house tonight."