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.

This trend is echoed in Australia, where organisations like the Australian Youth Orchestra and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra have launched TikTok channels aimed at younger audiences. But some artists are still sceptical.

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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.