New Report Reveals Young People are Discovering Orchestral Music Through Video Games

Data gathered by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra shows that one in six young people are discovering orchestral music through gaming

Recent research conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) shows that video game music is a significant avenue in engaging younger audiences. This project aligns with RPO’s overarching goal to continue diversifying its programming and bring classical music to broader audiences. 

The data from the RPO’s national survey of 2,000 people revealed that 88% of under 25s are interested in video games — one in six of these (15%) say they discovered orchestral music through gaming.

The results also showed that 22% of under 25s now play games where the orchestral soundtrack enhances their gaming experience; and 21% appreciate how video games have introduced new audiences to orchestral music.

Young people further expressed interest in seeing their favorite gaming music performed live (18%), noting that they would be more likely to attend an orchestral concert if it featured video game music.

Additionally, 19% of survey respondents have noticed similarities between gaming soundtracks and classical works, which has encouraged them to further explore the latter. 

To reflect these findings, the RPO will be hosting “Worlds of Fantasy: Video Games in Concert” conducted by Eímear Noone at the Royal Albert Hall on June 4, 2025.

The concert program will feature well-loved themes from The Last of Us, Civilisation, Fortnite, Baldur's Gate, Halo, among other gaming masterpieces. The RPO in full will be joined by vocalist Aisling McGlynn and the Crouch End Festival Chorus.

This event builds on RPO’s prior work with film and gaming music, including its 2018 World Premiere of PlayStation in Concert and the first ever video game concert in the BBC Proms. 

“This concert complements our broader programming by celebrating the artistry of game compositions alongside our traditional repertoire,” said RPO Head of Sales and Marketing Louise Williams. “Our survey suggests that video game soundtracks create distinctive entry points for younger audiences, many of whom are likely to experience orchestral music for the first time through gaming.”

“We’re witnessing the continued evolution of a relatively new genre of repertoire,” added RPO Director of Artistic Planning Tom Philpott. “Just as film scores gained artistic legitimacy decades ago, gaming soundtracks are now being recognised as culturally significant compositions worthy of the concert hall. This evolution ensures orchestral music remains vital and relevant to new generations — and can flex to enrich the artistic preferences of new generations.”