RPO research reveals classical music could have 6.2 million more listeners this year

New research commissioned by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) has revealed that a third of the 2,020 people surveyed by MaruBlue who admitted ‘not knowing much’ about classical music intend to give it a go this year. This equates to around 6.2 million adults in the UK.

The RPO’s survey also revealed the factors encouraging people to discover new genres of music, with emphasis on access to live performances. A third of people felt having music on their doorstep was key to trying something new, while one in five felt the Government needed to do more to support UK venues. Additionally, around a quarter felt that low-cost tickets would be a big incentive.

James Williams, managing director of the RPO commented: ‘Music is an important and integral part of people’s lives, and technology today means it has never been easier to discover or learn more about new genres of music. As is clear from these results, access to the live music experience is an important factor in helping people to discover new music.

Separately, the research found that 64% of adults were planning to explore a new music genre this year. Williams added: ‘We have seen consistently throughout our research during the pandemic that despite the despite months of disruption, with venues being shut and concert cancellations, people’s desire to discover new music, challenge themselves and indulge in their own interests is as strong as ever.’

Founded in 1946, the RPO celebrated its 75th anniversary last year. The orchestra has a worldwide audience of more than half a million people and recently welcomed new music director, Vasily Petrenko.

You can find out more about the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra here.