Gramophone magazine says that fans of the classical genre are fully embracing the digital music age following a reader survey which the title's editor reckons will "overturn our preconceptions about the kind of person who buys and listens to classical music".
Gramophone surveyed 60,000 of its readers about their music listening habits, and found that 75% used a computer, MP3 player or digital radio to listen to music. And while readers said they still listening to CDs and terrestrial radio, many also said they were now downloading music - with classical fans over the age of 50 having downloaded an average of eleven pieces of music last year. For those fans discovering downloading for the first time, Beethoven, Mozart and Peter Maxwell Davies are the most popular choices for a first download.
Discussing the survey, Gramophone editor James Jolly told reporters: "All ages actively enjoy classical music, with the over-50s showing themselves to be particularly dynamic. Not only do they prove that they have considerable purchasing power, but they are also technologically adept."
The survey also asked readers which piece of music they thought should open the 2012 Olympics in London. Sir Edward Elgar's 'Land Of Hope And Glory' was the top choice, followed by Gustav Holst's 'The Planets' and 'Chariots Of Fire' by Vangelis. I'd go with 'Land Of Hope And Glory'. I love 'Land Of Hope And Glory'.
This survey was announced at the MusicTank Think Tank discussion that took place ahead of the Classic FM Gramophone Awards that took place in London yesterday. As you'll remember, we spoke to Jolly ahead of that discussion, and you can read that interview here:
http://www.cmumusicnetwork.co.uk/interviews