Gen Z Live Music Spending – The Irish Times
The Price of a Good Time: Why Concert Tickets Are Worth the Splurge for Many
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The roar of the crowd, the thumping bass, the shared energy of thousands singing along to their favourite artist – there’s an undeniable magic to live music. But as ticket prices continue to climb, many are left wondering if the experience is still worth the investment. For some, like 22-year-old Aoibhinn Clancy, the answer is a resounding yes.
A Passion for Live Music: More Than Just a Hobby
Aoibhinn Clancy estimates she spent around €1,100 on 14 concert and festival tickets in the past year alone.While this might seem like a significant outlay, for Aoibhinn, it’s an investment in experiences she cherishes. “I’m someone who really enjoys spending money on an experience and it’s for that reason I like the investment and having something to look forward to,” she explains.
Her concert calendar reads like a music lover’s dream. She’s seen the legendary Elvis Costello with her mother, experienced the ethereal sounds of Lana Del Rey at both Dublin’s Aviva Stadium and London’s Wembley Stadium, danced to Charli XCX in Birmingham and at Malahide Castle, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of the Primavera music festival in Barcelona.
“Going to concerts is kind of my thing, my hobby,” Aoibhinn admits, recognizing that her spending habits place her in the upper echelons of concertgoers among her peers.
The Cost of the Concert Experience
while Aoibhinn finds immense value in these live music events, she acknowledges that “concerts in Ireland can be quite expensive.” The moast she paid for a single ticket last year was €150 for Lana Del Rey, a price she deemed “worth it.”
This sentiment is echoed by many who prioritize live music. The intangible benefits – the memories created, the emotional connection to the music and the artist, the shared joy with fellow fans - often outweigh the financial cost.
Why We Keep Going Back
Unforgettable Memories: concerts create lasting memories that can be revisited through stories and shared experiences.
Emotional Connection: Witnessing an artist perform live offers a unique emotional connection that recordings can’t replicate.
Sense of Community: being part of a crowd united by a love for the same music fosters a powerful sense of belonging.
Escapism: Live music provides an escape from daily routines, offering a chance to immerse oneself in a different world for a few hours.
* Supporting Artists: Attending concerts is a direct way to support the artists and the music industry.
The Future of Live Music: Balancing Affordability and Experience
As the live music industry continues to evolve, discussions around ticket pricing and accessibility remain crucial. While artists and promoters face rising costs, finding a balance that allows a wider audience to participate in these cherished experiences is key.
For now, individuals like Aoibhinn Clancy will continue to prioritize their passion for live music, understanding that some experiences are simply priceless. The thrill of a live performance, the connection with an artist, and the shared energy of a crowd are, for many, worth every penny.