I've had several students request learning to play fingerstyle guitar lately. This is similar to classical guitar except the music is newer and the arrangements allow for more flexibility. Although we will begin with published arrangements, the lessons will eventually show the student how to make their own arrangements.
I've noticed an increase of YouTube videos of this kind of playing in the last couple of years, but a specific artist was recommended to me by a 12 year old last week. When I watched I was impressed by the guitarists chops and his young age - maybe 15 or 16. But it was something that a young student could do with a little hard work. I think that's part of the attraction for her. "If he can do it so can I."
That was part of what I liked about folk music when I was her age. It was accessible. I didn't need a lot of expensive equipment or a stage full of backup musicians. Just a little acoustic guitar and my teenage cracking voice singing songs about working on the levee. The fact that I didn't know what a levee was or that I equated mowing the lawn as hard work didn't deter me.
Historically what has happened in the music business is that when something new comes along it is marginalized. Early rock and roll, doo-wop, folk music, punk, rap, etc. were all on the fringe initially. But the moment they start earning big money the guys in suits get involved and it's all business. The true art is often left behind in pursuit of even bigger profits.
The secondary problem is that many of the shows are now geared toward stadiums. To be clear, if you can sell tickets and entertain 50K people you are definitely doing something right. But it's also about the money. It has to be. And that is far removed from the daily life of the typical kid. They want to play music and impress their friends too. And from their perspective the big shows are an exclusive club. They can watch but not participate.
Whenever a certain style gets real big and exclusive, there is something developing in the fringes to take its place. And it will be economically accessible. From doo-wop to bluegrass to hip-hop a beginner with little or no money can still become involved.
I've said for several years that the business is ripe for the next big thing. I'm not sure if fingerstyle guitar is it but it seems to be gaining momentum. An acoustic guitar, a little talent, and a good work ethic and it's something that nearly anyone can do.
Personally I would like to see it have its day in the sun. I would profit professionally, of course, but more importantly music would seem to be more accessible to the beginner. And perhaps, for a brief moment, the music business would be returned to the musicians.