Teenagers voice their dislike of classical music

Annastashya Emmanuelle, Contributor, Jakarta

When we asked teenagers about what kind of music they liked, most said pop, alternative or rock music. Only a small number said classical music. Their reasons for disliking classical music ranged from boring to the opinion that it belonged to the older generation. Some Jakarta teenagers shared their opinions on classical music with The Jakarta Post.

Melissa, 14, St. Theresia High School, Central Jakarta

I don't mind listening to classical music if the main instrument is either the piano or the violin. Other than that, I am completely bored listening to it.

My favorite is Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, although there are other well-known classical music pieces that I like, but I can't recall their titles. I would recognize them if I heard them.

The reason I'm not into classical music is because most of the songs are too boring. I prefer pop music because its more upbeat and easier to listen to.

Firzal Siddik, 15, SMU 3 state high school, South Jakarta

I don't think I would enjoy listening to classical music for a long time. I have never been to a classical music concert either. I don't hate it, but I don't like it either.

Ho Hwan Kiong, 19, works at Nyan grocery store, Menteng, Central Jakarta

I don't like classical music. I guess it's because I can't see the beauty of it. The music sounds very complicated. I'd rather listen to pop music, either Indonesian or Western.

Vincentius Bari, 16, St. Belarminus, High School, Central Jakarta

I sometimes listen to classical music, but not intentionally, mainly because my grandmother listens to it.

When I was in the third grade at elementary school, I had a piano tutor come to my home and I was supposed to learn to play classical music. But now, when I play the piano I mostly play popular songs I can sing along to.

Bara Anadi Putra, 17, Lab School High School, East Jakarta

I don't like classical music at all and I can't pretend that I enjoy listening to it.

I have grown up listening to that kind of music at home, but I can't appreciate it. I don't really have a reason why I can't seem to like it.

Andri Frederick, 17, St. Theresia High School, Central Jakarta

I'm not too interested in classical music although my father often plays that kind of music at home on the stereo. I have to listen to his collection of classical music whether I want to or not.

Frankly, I think it's very boring.

My favorite kind of music is alternative or pop, and my favorite band is Linkin Park. I'm sure my friends would call me names if I turned out to be a huge classical music fan.

In my opinion, classical music is very much related to the older generation.