What Does a Concert Really Sell?

When you go to an orchestra concert or an opera performance or a chamber music recital the real value is the experience of the event. The feeling of being in the seat — of experiencing profoundly moving works first hand — is really what you pay for.

This is exactly the same reason for attending a rock concert or going to an open mic night. We go because we like the way it feels to see live music. When Metallica came to Iowa while I was a freshman, I had to go — I had to see the band that had had such a huge influence on me live. I was not disappointed.

If the fundamental reason why people attend any sort of concert is the same, it’s no wonder why art music concerts seemed to be attended by an older generation. Music organizations cater to that age group’s tastes and likes and dislikes.

It’s not as if a night at the orchestra is any more or less expensive than a ticket to a rock concert. Cheap or free tickets for young people is not going to inspire a new generation of art music lovers. Changing the way we think and present concerts might. Maybe arts organizations can take some lessons from rock concerts.

Posted on August 27, 2009 in Art Music, Music Business