I have been following, on and off, the topic of educating the
next generation and passing on one's enthusiasm for mechanical
music.  I was struck this morning by an item on BBC television,
which highlighted the lack of interest of youngsters in classical
music, as it seemed to me to identify part of the problem.

It was suggested that one reason for this apathy is that one
has to actively listen to classical music in order to enjoy it,
whereas modern 'pop' or 'easy listening' offers effortless instant
gratification.

I dislike generalisations, but I would venture that these days the
majority of youngsters, certainly those in the UK, are not used to
listening attentively nor are they willing to do so.  This puts
mechanical musical instruments at a disadvantage, especially the
quieter ones such as cylinder boxes and smaller disc machines --
they require concentration to appreciate them.  (Factor in those
repertoires consisting primarily of classical music.)

It would seem it is not a problem limited to just mechanical music,
but a wider problem affecting 'more serious' music in general, of
which mechanical music is only one area.

Maybe the question we need to ask is not so much 'How do we interest
them in mechanical music,' but 'How do we get them to listen?'

If we do manage to capture an audience with our instruments, it may
lead them on to a wider interest in all types of music.

Happy listening!

Alison Biden
Hampshire, UK