Classic FM Conversation: Is classical music still political?

Beethoven, Verdi, Shostakovich - throughout history music and politics have so often been been intertwined, but is classical music relevant as a political voice in today's society?

On Sunday night David Mellor re-created the programme of a Verdi tribute concert conducted by Toscanini that was held in 1901, shortly after the Italian composer's death. Verdi wrote great operas, but his music was also used to make powerful political statements about the unification of Italy.

Today, can classical music still make political statements? In an age where news and information can so easily be accessed and shared, do we no longer need music to be that political or social voice? 

In the comments section below, let us know what you think.