"Classical" music...on the verge of Code Blue?

I came across an article in which the author stated that Classical music was about to be an obsolete thing. I myself am a "classical" musician, so this article caught my attention. Whenever I think of a "classical" music blog, I visualize a blog which eventually begins to rant about how this genre of art is about to die and become as extinct as the dinosaurs. When I created this blog I knew that I wanted to avoid this topic. But after some thought, I think it is something that I might as well just take on right up front.

So what do I think about the situation? I attend concerts of professional orchestras on a weekly basis. Sometimes I even play in those concerts. While at performances, I can't help but notice that 75% of the audience is over the age of 50. I agree that the art form we call "classical" music is declining. But I, as a musician, have hope that it will improve.

I would like to cite an example. Let's take a look at the stock market. This is something that is constantly covered on news broadcasts. I make no claim to be a market analyst, but I do know that the market usually surges, then corrects itself, then inflates again, then corrects itself, etc. I like to think that classical music is in a "recession" at this point. Eventually it will come back again on an upswing. As a performer, I include myself when I say that it is time that we truly inspire those who hear us play. A person truly inspired will see the need for music, and want to share it with others. In essence, what I am advocating is peformers making a local difference by inspring their audiences.

Also, if you currently do not involve classical music in your daily arts diet, why not take the chance to try something new? A lesson that education teaches us is to have an open mind to trying new things. Admittedly, classical music is an acquired taste, but if you give it a chance, I'm sure that you won't be disappointed!

So...how could you begin to expose yourself to classical music?

* Your local library has a host of music on reserve. Check some out and enjoy it at your own leisure!
* But even better yet, go to an orchestra concert near you!!! Most orchestras have student tickets available for on average a cost of roughly $5- $10. For that price, you can't go wrong as a student!
* Many orchestras have personnel lists in their programs. Contact somewone who plays an instrument that you are interested in. Many of them will be more than happy to share their knowledge with you and can recommend pieces for you to explore.

In conclusion, I want to encourage you to try something new! You won't know what you've been missing until you try it out!

Please feel free to post to this topic about what you think. Also, please let me know if you have done what I have recommended! Tell me what did and didn't work!