*
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    


4BR review

4BR Review — Episode 15

February 1 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas look back at a memorable RNCM International Brass Band Festival, as well as look forward to the Norwegian Championships and more...


Grimethorpe

Grimethorpe to support a Day to Remember

February 1 • Grimethorpe Colliery Band will add their musical sparkle to a concert that aims to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society


UniBrass Championships

UniBrass Championships countdown now on

February 1 • There are now just a couple of weeks to go before the student banding world heads to Newport — so why not go along and enjoy the action.


North of England

Judges confirmed for North of England Regional Championships

February 1 • The adjudication teams for the North of England Regional Championships have been announced.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Croy Silver Band

February 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Tintwistle Band

January 29 • We have a vacancy for a soprano cornet player, ideally able to join us long-term, but we are also looking to fill this position to compete in the 2nd section Midlands area contest in March 2026.. We enjoy all year round concerts, contests,and social events


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

January 28 • Principal Cornet vacancy after March 2026. Our current player has asked for a very special 80th birthday present, a new player so that he can retire!. . Flexible rehearsal arrangements to support a good band - home life balance


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd