Programmers, Musicians, and Technology Leading the Changing Face of Centuries-Old Classical Music Tradition
Classical music, a genre with a history spanning centuries, is experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity, particularly among young audiences. Here are the key points highlighting this trend:
Growing Popularity and New Audiences
Interest in orchestral music has peaked, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) reporting that more than half of classical audiences are newcomers, while less than a third are longtime fans[2][5].
Technological Advancements and Streaming
Classical music streaming is on the rise: Apple has invested heavily in the classical music space, launching the Apple Music Classical app, which boasts the largest classical music streaming catalogue in the world. Other prominent orchestras like the Berliner Philharmoniker, New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Chicago Symphony Orchestra have also launched their own streaming services.
COVID-19 lockdowns accelerated this trend, with streaming classical music becoming a habit that has persisted even after live performances resumed. This increased home discovery has fueled interest in attending concerts.
Increased Engagement and Downloads
Classical music downloads have surged: Epidemic Sound reported an 80% year-over-year growth in classical music downloads from 2022 to 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing genres. This growth is also reflected in a 40% increase in classical music downloads from Epidemic Sound’s catalog[1][4].
Changing Perceptions and Consumption
Young people are embracing classical music for studying: A recent RPO report found that 75% of students prefer listening to orchestral music while revising, citing its calming and focusing effects[5].
Diverse genres within classical music are popular: Students are listening to a variety of orchestral music, including film soundtracks (44%), symphonies and concertos (35%), musical theatre soundtracks (23%), and video game soundtracks (around one third)[5].
Adaptation in Concert Halls
Programmers are adapting to younger audiences: To attract the under-35 crowd, concert halls are adopting more casual and flexible approaches, such as offering diverse programming and a less formal atmosphere. This includes events like film and gaming concerts to make classical music more accessible and engaging.
In summary, classical music is experiencing a significant revival, driven by technological advancements, changing consumption habits, and a broader appeal to new and younger audiences.
