A new study by Royal Albert Hall (RAH) shows that listening to live music has a significant positive impact on wellbeing.
It found that 69% of British people are ‘happier’ and ‘more stimulated’ when listening to live music. Respondents also said they were ‘more sociable’ (59%) and ‘more engaged’ (68%) when live music is playing, while 73% agreed that ‘live music can make an event feel more special’.
There was further positive news for live groups: more than half stated they would like to know about venues offering free live music and 42% said they would seek out music in smaller fringe-style venues.
However, 25% stated they would prefer to use pre-recorded music rather than hire a live band for an important event, while 45% feel they cannot afford ticket prices for live music.
“The positive effects of live music are undoubtable,” said RAH director of events Lucy Noble. “We must do all we can to ensure that live music is accessible and affordable to all and not just the privileged and wealthy.” She went on to add that RAH hosted 50 free charity performances in 2016 and more than 800 outreach events.
In response to the survey results, RAH has added a ‘Free Friday Music’ to its programming to ensure all people have access to live music.