The Boston Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1881 by Henry Lee Higginson.  Over their century-plus history, they have performed musical pieces from famous composers such as Beethoven and Bach.  On January 7, I had the privilege to go to Boston’s Symphony Hall and watch one of the world’s greatest classical talents.  Yo-Yo Ma was the Symphony’s feature that night and I was sitting only thirty feet away from the stage, atop a balcony.  As he played his cello, the entire crowd was in awe.  From children who were visiting Symphony Hall for the first time, to passionate classical music listeners, Ma made everyone smile. 

      After leaving Symphony Hall that night, I wondered to myself why I don’t go to the Symphony much.  Why don’t many kids my age go to the Symphony?  A lot of music that kids listen to these days is partially influenced by classical music in some sense.  The lack of appreciation towards classical music amongst today’s youth is huge.  Yes, we all know of the famous names such as Mozart, but there are so many other composers that shaped the genre as well. 

     The one main reason why so many kids don’t listen to classical music is the infamous quote, “It’s boring.”  Every kid who I have ever talked to about classical music cites their experiences in elementary school where everyone learns the basics of music and the common instruments.   It was this time in their lives where they were forced to learn something that they either didn’t want to learn at all or wanted to find the appreciation on their own. 

Ipswich High School student Laura Baldinelli comments on this topic by saying, "Classical music is very important to the entire music culture.  It's so important that today's youth should be taught the basics of music."  Laura was once a clarinet player, so her background as a musician adds to her support of the genre.  Anthony Longo, another Ipswich High School student, is one who finds classical music, "boring."  "It's just too bland.  There is no excitement and I feel like I'm about to fall asleep while listening to it," says Anthony, who has never played an instrument.

     One aspect of elementary school music that helps today’s youth appreciate classical music, however, is when you are allowed to join the band.  I have experienced this myself; it’s an exciting time when a kid is given the choice of what instrument to play.  Even if they don’t play for many years to come, or even into middle school, this experience is crucial for classical music in its effort to educate young minds.  The Boston Symphony Orchestra makes an enormous effort in education as well.  They set up family and youth concerts to spread the music and they also offer programs for students to develop their musical skills.

     Not everyone can like classical music.  Everyone has their own likes and dislikes which they can determine.  But, classical music shouldn't considered a "dead" genre amongst today's youth.  This genre has so much to offer from listening to famous musical compositions to moments like learning how to play one's first song on an instrument.  Without the education of classical music towards the youth, any sort of music might not be found at all.