Beyond Art. Classical Music as a Cultural Profession

ABSTRACT What is the future of classical music? The outlook appears bleak; without concerted intervention, there may be very few people left to either perform or appreciate it in the near future. What actions can be taken, and who should spearhead them? While governmental and cultural institutions are expected to do their part by allocating resources for classical music education and performances, this paper argues that performers, as cultural agents, also have a pivotal role to play in preserving a practice with profound cultural and societal significance. Therefore, beyond their technical and musical prowess, musicians must also cultivate additional skills, including critical and reflective capabilities. This reimagining of the performer's role necessitates a broader ethical reassessment of classical music as a professional pursuit. Over centuries, music has evolved from mere craftsmanship to a refined art form. Now, it stands at a juncture where it must redefine itself as a cultural profession to reclaim its relevance in contemporary and future societies. The survival of classical music rests on its ability to make this shift.