Classical music is experiencing renewed interest among younger audiences, driven in part by social media and digital streaming platforms. A 2025 survey conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra found that 65% of people under 35 reported listening to orchestral music daily, compared to 57% of those aged 55 or older. This marks the first time younger listeners have surpassed their parents’ generation in engagement with classical music.
Social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have played a significant role in this trend, with musicians sharing performances and connecting directly with fans. The hashtag #classicalmusic has accumulated over 2 billion views on TikTok, reflecting the genre’s growing online presence.
Greg Jones, Associate Dean of Engagement at Florida State University College of Music, attributes much of this growth to streaming services. “The soundtrack for video reels sets the mood for the visuals in the same manner it does in movies and television,” Jones said. “Streaming platforms, the primary delivery system for younger listeners, offer the opportunity to match AI-sorted music according to mood and listening history. If you select something from a movie soundtrack, for example, the platform will continue your playlist with similar selections.”
Jones noted that today’s young listeners are less likely to differentiate between musical genres than previous generations. He said they find “comfort and connection from acoustic instrumental sounds, beautiful melodies and the naturalness of classical music.” According to Jones, heavily produced electronic styles do not evoke the same emotional response or sense of authenticity as classical compositions.
Participation in school ensembles and exposure through festivals also contribute to increased interest among youth. Jones observed: “We find that the younger demographic is drawn to classical music through participation in ensembles in junior high and high school and in festivals and camps like the ones we host annually in the College of Music. Others find a love for this style of music as it is still prevalent in movie soundtracks like How to Train Your Dragon, Star Wars and countless television series.”
The FSU College of Music has been recognized nationally; Niche ranked it No. 6 among colleges for music education.
Media interested in learning more about this trend can contact Greg Jones at Florida State University’s College of Music.
