Universal Music Group (UMG) is broadening its reach in China’s music market by launching dedicated classical and jazz labels. This move extends beyond mainstream pop in the world’s second-largest economy.
UMG’s Universal Music Greater China division has introduced Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China. Both labels will focus on discovering and supporting emerging Chinese artists, the company announced on Thursday, May 15.
To lead the classical label, Universal Music has appointed pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang, along with conductor Long Yu— all with Chinese backgrounds— as Artistic Advisors.
Deutsche Grammophon, known as the world’s oldest record label, launched its own high-resolution classical music streaming service called STAGE+ in 2022. Blue Note Records joined Universal Music after UMG acquired EMI’s recorded music division in 2011.
Timothy Xu, CEO of Universal Music Greater China, will manage both new labels. He said, “For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have been deeply respected by Chinese classical and jazz musicians. These labels have shaped how local artists learn and create in these genres.”
“Today marks a new chapter. For the first time, these iconic labels have set up dedicated operations in China. This allows direct engagement with local artists and communities.”
“DG China and Blue Note Records China will fully commit to discovering and nurturing China’s next generation of talent. We aim to help classical and jazz music grow in China and to bring Chinese musical expression into global conversations.”
Deutsche Grammophon China will sign and develop new Chinese musicians with support from UMG’s worldwide network. Its first album release is scheduled for May 23, featuring cellist Jian Wang performing Bach: The Cello Suites.
The label also plans to collaborate with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. Together, they will record and release the complete Shostakovich Symphonies by 2029, celebrating the orchestra’s 150th anniversary.
Dr. Clemens Trautmann, President of Deutsche Grammophon and New Business Strategy for Global Classics, said: “Over the past decade, Deutsche Grammophon has grown its presence in China’s classical music scene through major events like the 120th anniversary gala concert in the Forbidden City and partnerships with Lang Lang, Long Yu, and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra.”
“We are proud to invest in the future of Greater China’s classical performers. Alongside our partners at Universal Music Greater China, we will support new talent across recording, touring, and branding opportunities.”
“Working with Blue Note and our international artists Lang Lang, Yuja Wang, and Long Yu as Artistic Advisors highlights UMG’s global reach and creativity in arts music.”
Pianist Lang Lang said, “Deutsche Grammophon has been my musical home for many years. I’m excited about DG China and honored to serve as Artistic Advisor. I believe this label will be a key platform for emerging Chinese musicians and help classical music reach wider audiences. I hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the world stage, a mission I fully support.”
Yuja Wang added, “The Yellow Label has been my recording home for over a decade. I’m delighted it will now engage with young artists in China. As Artistic Advisor, I look forward to helping identify and grow future classical talent.”
Conductor Long Yu commented, “It’s an honor to be named Artistic Advisor for DG China. I value my long relationship with the label and am excited to see this new chapter. Our upcoming Shostakovich project honors the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra’s 150 years and showcases the artistry of Chinese musicians. With DG’s global platform, we are proud to share these voices worldwide.”
On the jazz side, Blue Note Records China aims to build ties with local jazz artists and promote Chinese jazz internationally. The label’s first signing is the experimental jazz duo INNOUT, featuring guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu.
Don Was, President of Blue Note Records, said, “Xiao Jun and An Yu are among the most talented musicians I’ve met. Their music will impress audiences worldwide. It’s an honor to launch Blue Note Records China with their work.”
INNOUT said, “Blue Note represents the musical spirit we admire. Partnering with Blue Note Records China continues our dream and starts an exciting new chapter.”
Blue Note Records China will also collaborate with Shanghai-based promoter JZ Music to develop touring and festival opportunities.
Ren Yuqing, founder of JZ Music, stated, “We are thrilled to work with Blue Note Records China to showcase original Chinese jazz. Together, we want to create more platforms for artists to perform, grow, and connect with wider audiences locally and internationally.”
Adam Granite, Executive Vice President of Market Development at Universal Music Group, said, “UMG is committed to supporting diverse music cultures globally. Launching Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China reflects this commitment and advances our multi-label operations in China.”
“By combining the global legacy of these two iconic labels with the knowledge of our local team, we create a stronger platform to connect Chinese talent with international opportunities.”
In recent years, UMG has increased its focus on classical music. In 2023, just four months after launching the STAGE+ streaming service under Deutsche Grammophon, the company acquired the British classical label Hyperion Records.
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