AvanineCommuter

He is claiming that the music is more "fan-friendly", in which case how recognizable the composers are is a factor. If two pieces were played equally well, but one is a very popular and well recognized symphony by a well-regarded composer and the other is an obscure opera from an unknown composer... well, which do you think the general public will appreciate more? Some people might give the popular piece more credit just because of its popularity; it may not be fair, but that's how it is unfortunately. Good thing this doesn't affect the judges, eh? ;)