The TikTokification of classical music

Young musicians are trading the concert hall for the scroll, using short-form video to reshape the future of classical music on TikTok.
Classical musicians like Australian duo TwoSet Violin are finding thousands of fans on TikTok. The photo shows two younger Asian-Australian men, both formally dressed and holding violins by their sides in their left hands, and violin bows in their left. The two men are standing in a wooden studio surrounded by light and a single, standing spotlight illuminates the scene.

From Paganini to pop culture parody, TikTok is transforming the way young audiences discover classical music. With short-form videos blending virtuosic performance, meme culture and digital storytelling, a new generation of artists is reaching millions – and reimagining what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century.

Australian musicians like the duo TwoSet Violin have cultivated massive global audiences by mixing serious musicianship with humour and relatability. Their TikTok account has garnered over 1.2 million followers, showcasing the duo’s unique blend of classical performance and comedic sketches.

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David Burton is a writer from Meanjin, Brisbane. David also works as a playwright, director and author. He is the playwright of over 30 professionally produced plays. He holds a Doctorate in the Creative Industries.