Global superstar Rosalía is known for pushing creative boundaries, and her latest artistic move is igniting a powerful shift among young music lovers. Just before announcing her fourth studio album Lux, the Spanish singer previewed the project on Instagram — accompanied not by pop beats but by classical music and orchestral arrangements.
The teaser hinted at a sonically dramatic departure. The album’s lead single, “Berghain,” opens with strings and choral harmonies before unfolding into Rosalía’s signature experimental style. The artist, who is classically trained, collaborated with the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) to bring her vision to life.
Now, many believe she may help spark wider appreciation for classical music among younger listeners — a demographic long presumed disconnected from the genre.
Young Musicians Already Feel the Influence
At the LSO East London Academy, a free program offering musical training to teenagers ages 11 to 18, students say they were already connected to classical music — but Rosalía’s work amplified their excitement.
Si, 15, says the album left her “really inspired.”
“A lot of people say classical music is boring, but when I’m playing it, it’s fun. Seeing classical instruments in modern music is cool and creative.”
The Academy gives young players professional coaching and access to orchestral environments often seen as exclusive or expensive to enter.
Classical Music Is Growing Among Gen Z
The perception that classical music is outdated does not entirely align with reality — especially online. TikTok reports a 60% increase in use of the #ClassicalMusic hashtag in the past year, and Rosalía’s tracks “La Perla” and “Berghain” have been used in 600,000 creator videos, generating three billion views.
Music journalist and cellist Hattie Butterworth says Rosalía is part of a larger wave of pop artists exploring orchestral sound — and audiences respond strongly to authenticity.
“If you know an artist has that background in singing or an instrument, it feels more valid,” she explains.
Breaking Barriers in a Historically Exclusive Genre
For some young musicians, access remains a challenge. Iyannah, 18, has played cello since she was 11 and says the world of classical music can feel elitist.
“It can feel like you need a lot of money. It’s biased ethnically. But seeing more diversity makes it feel possible.”
Programs like the LSO Academy help provide that path — nurturing community, talent and confidence.
Inside Rosalía’s Studio Collaboration
Veteran violinist Belinda (Bindi) McFarlane, who has spent 35 years with the London Symphony Orchestra, worked directly on Lux and describes the experience as exhilarating.
“Hearing the final product was thrilling. She wove all the recorded music beautifully through the tracks.”
McFarlane says Rosalía was deeply hands-on in shaping the sound.
“She was friendly and full of ideas. It was a thrill to work with her.”
A Movement Beyond an Album
Whether Lux ultimately transforms classical music’s audience remains to be seen, but young musicians say the momentum is real — and growing.
For now, Rosalía has opened a cultural door that might bring the concert hall closer to the streaming generation.
