Concert halls contribute over £328m to the UK economy, finds report

The UK’s concert halls generated over £328 million for the economy last year, with classical and orchestral music accounting for a third of all concerts held, according to a new report.

Undertaken by British Association of Concert Halls (BACH), and using data from its first-ever annual survey, the report covers the 2023-24 period and includes figures from 26 of the 40 venues operated by BACH’s 37 members.

Collectively, the 26 venues hosted over 9,000 concerts and events during that period, with a total audience of more than six million. 

Their combined income for the year was more than £233 million, an increase from £172 million in 2021-2022.

The report suggests this figure means that for every £1 of the total £43 million public investment, the concert halls generated £4.48 in ticket income.

Kevin Appleby, chair of BACH, said: “Our survey demonstrates the critical role concert halls play in communities up and down the UK. 

“Not only do they bring diverse arts and cultural experiences to wide audiences, but they also provide significant economic value, generating nearly £330 million annually.”

Challenging ‘the myths’ around orchestral concerts

The survey also highlights steps made by the classical and orchestral music sector to grow audiences with average ticket prices for many concerts starting at below £10 and of the featured venues operating discount ticket schemes for under-30s.

For the 2023-24 period, 100,000 young people took advantage of these ticket offers.

Appleby said the survey results challenge “the myths around orchestral concerts of waning popularity and narrow audiences”.

He added: “These findings underline the importance of continued support for our vital network of cultural institutions to ensure they are able to keep on presenting their broad and impactful programmes.”