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Step 1
Approach classical music one piece at a time. Don't try to get a teenager to like classical music as a whole all at once.
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Step 2
Play a piece that you like. Pick a favorite to share with a teen as something that they might like, too. And if you can find pieces that relate to or have similarities with the music they listen to, all the better. For example, Metallica did a recording, sound and video, with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra.
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Step 3
Start with shorter pieces because it is hard to devote a lot of time to something you don't think you like. You have a limited time to impress before boredom sets in.
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Step 4
Give classical music as gift. This is one way to carry out steps one to three. Don't give them 50 CDs or a recording of a Wagner cycle. One of your favorite recordings or a mix taken from a few of them is a good start. The fact that you gave it as a gift may encourage them to give it chance. You could offer a double money back guarantee, too: if you still don't like this CD after listening to it twice, I will buy you two CDs of your choice.
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Step 5
See it live and make an event out of it. Include dinner as part of the outing. Free food gets the attention of most teens, especially if they can pick the restaurant.
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Step 6
Trade. Listen to some of their music in return for them listening to yours. Give feedback, share about which songs you liked the most and least. Which bands? Find some of their music you like and listen to it on the way to work or while you are doing work around the house.
