New research released by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) indicates that young audiences are increasingly eager to engage with classical music, but are seeking changes to traditional concert-going formats to make live performances more accessible and welcoming.
According to the RPO's national survey, 39% of respondents under the age of 25 are interested in adding classical tracks to their streaming playlists, while 18% expressed interest in purchasing classical recordings on vinyl. However, an overwhelming 86% of young people stated they would like live orchestral concerts to evolve to become more approachable and easier to follow.
Key adjustments requested by younger demographics include pre-concert talks on social and historical contexts (23%), easy access to background information before performances (20%), and more daytime or matinee options (17%).
Furthermore, 14% noted that clarifying the absence of formal dress codes would encourage attendance, while 12% preferred conductors to speak directly to the audience prior to a performance.
In response to these findings, the RPO is launching a brand-new Revealed concert series for its 2026–27 season. Designed to welcome newcomers and offer deeper insights to seasoned patrons, the informal format pairs multi-award-winning historian and writer Leah Broad with conductors to break down iconic works in conversation before a full orchestral performance.
Commenting on the initiative, RPO Music Director Vasily Petrenko noted that while streaming, film scores, and gaming soundtracks have fueled a new generation's curiosity, the concert hall remains the ultimate space for discovery. Petrenko highlighted that the new format aims to strip away perceived barriers, making the initial venue experience as engaging as possible.
The Revealed series kicks off this autumn at Cadogan Hall, with Petrenko exploring Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony, followed in May 2027 by conductor Adam Hickox unraveling Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony.
Full details regarding the Revealed concert series and season ticketing are available via the official Royal Philharmonic Orchestra website.
