Posted September 1, 2025
September Theme | #TakeAStand
Historically, classical music was composed for the wealthy, cordoned off to the likes of kings, queens, aristocrats, and the elite. While audiences have diversified over time, classical music still carries the weight of these age-old stereotypes.
Our mission at Denver Philharmonic Orchestra is to tear down these walls. We firmly believe classical music should be shared freely, joyfully, and without financial gatekeeping, and we’re here to show it.
This month’s Take A Stand theme is Affordable Ticketing, affirming classical music isn’t a luxury for the few. It’s a shared cultural treasure, meant to be experienced by all.
Why It Matters: The Modern Perspective
Today, cost remains one of the biggest barriers to classical concert attendance, especially among younger audiences and those with limited income. Research shows:
Adults earning over $100,000 are more than twice as likely to attend a performing arts event as those earning under $20,000 (63% vs. 26%)
(National Endowment for the Arts, 2018)
Fewer 18 to 34-year-olds attend performing arts events than previous generations, with ticket cost as the most cited barrier. Many in this age group overestimate the lowest ticket price, often by more than double.
(Wallace Foundation, 2014)
63% of U.S. adults (which the study identified as “responders”) say they would accept a free ticket to a classical music concert if offered by a friend.
(The Audience Agency, 2023)
This is as much about perception as it is about money. Many people assume they can’t afford a ticket before they’ve even looked. That false assumption alone is enough to keep them from ever stepping into a concert hall.
When ticket prices are perceived to be too high (or require subscriptions or advance commitment), interested parties often never take that first step. But when we remove those barriers? We activate new audiences, create belonging, and grow musical communities that truly represent our city.
A Seat for Everyone
From the very beginning, DPO has operated under one simple truth: music is for everyone. Regardless of background, income, or circumstance, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the magic of classical music.
Our ticketing philosophy reflects that. We’ve built a structure designed to be as inclusive and accessible as possible:
- $30 – General Admission
- $20 – Seniors, Military, Healthcare Workers, First Responders
- $12 – Students & Teachers
- $0 – YOUTHTix: 18 & under attend free
And if even these prices feel out of reach? We understand. No one is ever turned away at the door. Just email tickets@denverphilharmonic.org. We’re here to help.
Introducing: Pay What You Can
This fall, we went even further. In September 2025, we launched a year-round Pay What You Can (PWYC) initiative, because cost should never stand between you and the arts.
For every concert, 100 PWYC tickets will be made available online, starting at just $1. If those are gone, we still encourage folks to email us—or simply show up. We’ll find a way to make it work.
“Our most expensive ticket is $30, but for many, even that’s too much. PWYC is here to meet people where they are—with no proof of income, no questions, and no judgment. Just music.”
— Roger Haak, DPO Executive Director
It’s not a promotion. It’s our values in action.
Take a Stand with Us
- Donate to help keep concerts open to ALL: youth, students, seniors, essential workers, and anyone needing a seat
- Spread the word! Invite someone who’s never been to a classical music concert before and share our PWYC program & ticket discounts with those you know
- Download one of our Take a Stand badges, use #TakeAStand and tag @denverphilorch (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & Bluesky) to share how affordable access has made a difference for you
- Get in touch and partner with us if your organization Takes A Stand for meaningful change in our community
Sources:
National Endowment for the Arts. (2018). U.S. patterns of arts participation: A full report from the 2017 survey of public participation in the arts. National Endowment for the Arts. https://www.arts.gov/sites/default/files/US_Patterns_of_Arts_ParticipationRevised.pdf
The Audience Agency. (2023). Cultural participation monitor: Free ticket uptake and audience motivation. The Audience Agency. https://evidence.audienceanswers.org/en/evidence/cultural-participation-monitor
Wallace Foundation. (2014). Building millennial audiences: Barriers and opportunities. Wallace Foundation. https://wallacefoundation.org/report/building-millennial-audiences-barriers-and-opportunities-barriers-and-opportunities