Classical music is a wonderful thing.
But the traditions around classical performance keep modern audiences away. Except for older generations and music school students.
I mean, think about it. When you go to a classical-music concert, there's...
No making sound of any kind.
No talking.
No applauding during a performance.
No applauding between movements.
No leaving during a performance.
No entering during a performance.
No eating.
No drinking.
No laughing.
No moving.
And most of the time, the performer comes out as if no one is there. Performs. Bows. And leaves.
While the music itself may be wondrous, the overall experience doesn't leave newcomers wanting to come back for more.
For them, it's an experience of "just play and leave."
But when we read music history books, we rarely read about a period of music that "did everything possible to cling on to everything from the past."
Music and practices around music are ever changing and evolving. Over time, the traditional classical concert format won't be sustainable anymore.
And that's okay. Because something much more remarkable will take its place.