Study finds majority of Britons listen to orchestral music daily
A recent study conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) has revealed that more than three quarters of British citizens interact with orchestral music on a daily basis. This research indicates a significant increase in listenership compared to figures recorded in the summer of 2022, where just over half of the population reported engaging with orchestral sounds regularly.
The RPO attributes this surge in interest to various collaborations with artists from different genres, such as Sir Rod Stewart, Def Leppard, and The Carpenters, as well as the inclusion of orchestral music in film and video game soundtracks and musical productions. According to the study, 76 percent of adults now incorporate orchestral music into their daily routines, utilizing it while cooking, exercising, gardening, and even during intimate moments.
Interestingly, the appeal of orchestral music extends beyond traditional classical music enthusiasts, with 52 percent of the audience for collaborative performances comprising rock, pop, and indie music fans. Furthermore, individuals who enjoy electronica, dance, and hip hop music made up 20 percent of attendees at orchestral film soundtrack concerts.
Tom Philpott, the RPO’s director of artistic planning and partnerships, emphasized the broad appeal of orchestral music, stating that the genre attracts a diverse audience originating from various music preferences. Philpott highlighted the importance of providing inclusive concert programming to cater to a wide range of musical tastes and ensure the continued popularity and relevance of orchestral music.
The research also indicated that 41 percent of British adults view music, across all genres, as the UK’s greatest cultural export, showcasing the significance of the country’s music industry on a global scale. Additionally, 76 percent of respondents expressed a desire for increased government support for the arts and culture sector to sustain and nurture the creative landscape in the UK.
In response to these findings, Sarah Bardwell, the managing director of the RPO, emphasized the intrinsic value of music in people’s lives and the profound impact it has on individuals’ well-being and sense of purpose. Bardwell underscored the RPO’s commitment to making orchestral music accessible to a diverse audience and contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the importance of supporting and investing in the future of music production and performance.
Overall, the RPO’s research underscores the widespread appreciation for orchestral music among the British populace and highlights the pivotal role that music plays in enhancing the quality of life and fostering cultural enrichment in society. By cultivating a dynamic and inclusive musical landscape, organizations like the RPO are instrumental in shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for the music industry.