Gen Z and Young Millennials’ Surprising Obsession with Classical Music
In a surprising trend, Gen Z and young millennials are rediscovering classical music, as demonstrated by a survey conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO). The survey found that 74% of UK residents under the age of 25 were likely to listen to orchestral music during the Christmas season, surpassing the 46% of people aged 55 and above. This highlights not only an increased interest in classical music among younger generations but also the genre's growing presence in mainstream culture.
Factors contributing to this resurgence include the playlist culture facilitated by streaming platforms, the sense of comfort that classical music provided during the pandemic, and notable appearances in popular culture, such as in the hit series Squid Game. However, the most significant factor might be the rise of a new wave of young classical musicians who are reshaping the genre, making it more accessible, relatable, and enjoyable for modern audiences.
Social Media’s Role in Making Classical Music Accessible
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, have been key in democratizing classical music. The hashtag #classictok has garnered millions of views, where classical musicians share their performances and behind-the-scenes moments. Esther Abrami, a French violinist with a strong following on Instagram and TikTok, is one of the prime examples of this movement. Abrami, who studied at top institutions but initially struggled to share her passion for classical music, turned to social media to reach a broader audience. By doing so, she gained a global following and encouraged many new listeners to appreciate classical music.
Similarly, Babatunde Akinboboye, a Nigerian-US baritone, gained viral fame by blending opera with hip-hop, creating a genre he calls hip-hopera. His video, where he sang a Rossini aria over Kendrick Lamar’s "Humble," went viral, expanding his reach far beyond traditional opera circles. He now has a significant TikTok following and regularly receives messages from fans who are inspired to attend their first opera.
Breaking Down Barriers to Classical Music
Both Abrami and Akinboboye highlight the importance of making classical music more approachable and relatable. Abrami believes that the key is to present the genre through the lens of a young, accessible individual, helping listeners connect emotionally with the music. Likewise, Akinboboye attributes his success to making opera feel less intimidating by sharing his personal journey and blending it with music that resonates with younger audiences.
Harriet Stubbs, a British concert pianist, also champions the idea of making classical music more accessible. During the pandemic, she performed 250 concerts from her flat, reaching out to the local community and showcasing classical music’s ability to uplift and connect people during difficult times.
Fusion of Classical with Contemporary Music
A significant aspect of this trend is the fusion of classical music with other genres. Harriet Stubbs, for instance, has been merging rock and roll with classical music, and her album Heaven & Hell: The Doors of Perception combines classical sounds with contemporary rock influences. Similarly, YouTube channels like React to the K showcase classical artists reinterpreting K-pop songs, bringing new life to both classical music and popular culture.
This blending of genres is not just a passing trend but part of a broader effort to redefine and modernize classical music. As Stubbs prepares for her next album, she plans to fuse David Bowie’s music with Rachmaninoff, further breaking down the barriers between classical and modern music.
The newfound popularity of classical music among Gen Z and young millennials marks a profound shift in how the genre is perceived. Thanks to social media, fresh perspectives from young artists, and the fusion of classical with contemporary music, this once-elite genre is becoming more inclusive, diverse, and relatable than ever before. Whether through the lens of a hip-hopera or a rock-inspired classical album, classical music is carving a new niche in the modern cultural landscape, proving that the genre is far from outdated.