*
banner

New survey shows classical music is under appreciated

65% of people believe classical music to be under appreciated — as new survey highlights that orchestras are a vital part of UK cultural life.

Music
  Classical music is under appreciated according to the new survey

A new survey conducted by The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) has shown that 74% of people believe that orchestras are a vital part of the UK's cultural heritage.

Under appreciated

In addition, over 65% of the 2000 people asked, felt that classical music was "under-appreciated", whilst over 70% felt it helped to amplify significant moments in a person's life such as weddings or funerals to state occasions and sporting ceremonies.

The survey was held in partnership with Classic FM, Classical Music Magazine, LIVE, UK Music, the Musicians Unions and the Independent Society of Musicians.

Inspire

The campaign's purpose is to inspire the British public to celebrate and share what classical music means to them.

Through the hashtag #MusicThatMovesYou, people are invited to show their love of classical music and support for UK orchestras by sharing a piece of classical music on social media that has moved them and what the music has meant to them in their life.

In addition, over 65% of the 2000 people asked, felt that classical music was "under-appreciated", whilst over 70% felt it helped to amplify significant moments in a person's life4BR

Responses

Responses to describe the effect of hearing classical music said that it was 'relaxing' (37%); timeless (36%); powerful (35%) and emotional (33%).

Interestingly, it also found that 73% of 18-34 year olds wanted to be 'completely immersed' in their musical experiences compared to 43% of 55 year olds plus.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


iNSTRUMENTS

Trump tariffs set to raise instrument prices in USA

August 13 • A new tariff proposal on imports, parts and accessories on brass and wind musical instruments draws criticism about national security issues.


willebroek

Willebroek's sixth sense pays off with Band Academy

August 13 • Over 60 young players enjoyed six days of Belgian music making on their sixth Academy course.


Harper

Harper enjoys Cory reconnection in Japan

August 13 • Philip Harper has made a Cory link in Japan to help inspire musicians on the Ageo Band Camp in Saitama.


Bruce Broughton

BrookWright Music: 11 March 1917 (Bruce Broughton)

August 13 • A moving euphonium solo from the pen of the critically acclaimed American composer Bruce Broughton.


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Waterbeach Brass

August 14 • Waterbeach Brass are a friendly and ambitious 2nd section band just north of Cambridge, looking for Tutti cornet, Eb bass and Tuned percussion to complete their lineup.. . Rehearsals on a Monday night- 7:45-10pm at Waterbeach Barracks.


Brunel Brass Organisation

August 13 • Brunel Brass is looking for a BACK ROW CORNET to complete the band. Challenging for promotion to the Championship Section in 2027 and achieving our highest ever result at the British Open Senior Trophy in 2026, it's an exciting time to join the band!


Chinnor Silver

August 12 • Our COMMUNITY BAND meets again on MONDAY (17th) in our bandroom at 11am. We welcome players of all abilities who want a friendly relaxed rehearsal with tea and cake.. Playing with us doesn’t affect your own band it’s just an extra blow.


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd