Rosalía's Lux: How a Pop Star's Classical Collaboration Is Reigniting Interest in Orchestral Music

Rosalía's latest project, Lux, marks a bold blend of contemporary pop and classical textures. A teaser video released ahead of the album gave a hint of the sound, with the lead single Berghain opening on strings and a soaring choir. The collaboration with the London Symphony Orchestra anchors the project as a landmark cross-genre moment.

As discussions about classical music evolve, Lux is seen as a bridge to younger listeners, showcasing orchestral color in modern arrangements and ambitious production.

A bridge to a younger audience

Fifteen-year-old Si from the LSO East Academy explains how classical music once felt distant, but now feels engaging when contemporary songs feature genuine classical textures. The academy offers a free program for 11- to 18-year-olds with coaching from professional musicians.

Si says Rosalía's work has left him feeling inspired, illustrating how cross-genre collaborations can broaden what pop music can be when it incorporates orchestral sounds.

“Having these classical instruments in modern music is a lot more fun,” Si adds.

Although Rosalía's album has sparked a wide discussion about classical music among a broader audience, she is not the first pop artist to weave orchestral sounds into popular tracks.

Cellist and editor Hattie Butterworth notes that more pop stars are exploring classical textures, underscoring a growing appetite for musical authenticity.

“When artists bring a real sense of musical background to their work, audiences respond with greater engagement,” she says, adding that authenticity enhances credibility in cross-genre projects.

Ayanna, 18, a member of the LSO East Academy who has played cello since age 11, explains that she initially disliked the instrument but grew to love its voice as she studied its sound.

“When you absorb the instrument's resonance, your perspective changes,” she says. “Now, I’d love to build a career in music.”

Ayanna also speaks about barriers such as funding and limited access, noting that the academy fosters a diverse, supportive community that keeps students motivated.

London Symphony Orchestra violinist Belinda McFarlane, known as Bindi, has worked with Rosalía during studio sessions. She says the album is thrilling, weaving the violin section and other orchestral textures into the tracks in inventive ways.

“Rosalía was present in the sessions and shared fresh ideas; meeting her was a genuine highlight,” she recalls.

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Key Takeaways

• Lux signals a growing openness among pop artists to weave orchestral textures into mainstream music.
• The collaboration with the London Symphony Orchestra highlights authentic cross-genre artistry and ambition.
• Social media, especially TikTok, accelerates discovery while underlining ongoing questions about classical music’s accessibility.
• Programs like the LSO East Academy provide crucial pathways for diverse young musicians seeking careers in music.

Expert comment: A music education expert notes that authenticity matters for engagement, and cross-genre projects can widen participation in classical music.

In summary, Lux demonstrates that pop and classical music can coexist in compelling ways while expanding opportunities for young players. The collaboration signals a trend toward more inclusive, creatively fused projects that reach broader audiences, potentially reshaping the future of musical collaboration.

Cross-genre collaborations can broaden access to classical music when authenticity and opportunity converge. Source: BBC News