Listening to audiences: A critical analysis of participation in classical music education and outreach projects

The last four decades have been characterised by a growing discussion in the orchestral sector regarding modes for overcoming barriers to classical music attendance. Such discussions reflect funding bodies’ growing requirements for initiatives capable of broadening and diversifying audiences and being meaningful for participants, whilst maintaining artistic excellence. This research investigates the extent to which education and outreach projects offered by two classical music organisations allowed or inhibited participation in, and engagement with, classical music and opera. Whether through a single attendance at a performance of the Whistle Stop Opera project, or by taking part in the Hallé Inspire programme, a long-term creative music-making programme, the research aimed to investigate the value attributed to classical music by participants and its place in their lives. Drawing on an ethnographic approach, underpinned by observations and conversations with participants, this study examines individuals’ experiences of interpreting, expressing and attributing meaning to their encounters with classical music and opera. By placing participants’ voices at the heart of the inquiry, it reveals the variety of participants’ expectations, responses, emotions and relationships to the artforms, making an original contribution to the fields of audience research, music education, arts management, and cultural policy. The research also provides an in-depth analysis of encouragements and barriers to participation that may inform organisational policies and practices. The findings of this study highlight the role of spaces and the relationship between participants and performers in influencing audiences’ enjoyment and in fostering life-long engagement with classical music, both for new audiences and for regular attendees. This study reveals the lack of a concise alignment between arts organisations’ missions with the goals and outcomes envisioned by projects dedicated to broadening and diversifying audiences, highlighting the need for clearly focused aims and objectives in education and outreach projects.