Universal Music Greater China is expanding into the burgeoning Chinese classic and jazz music scene with Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China. Each one of the most globally respected brands for classical and jazz music, respectively, both labels will focus on identifying and supporting rising Chinese musical talent, using their history of artistic excellence to connect these new musicians with an ever-growing global audience.

At the launch event on May 15, the company announced that pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang and Music Director of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Long Yu will serve as artist advisors for DG China. “The Yellow Label has been my recording home for well over a decade, and I am delighted to see it engage with young artists in my home country,” Wang said. “I am thrilled to support this initiative as Artistic Advisor and to help identify and grow future talent across the full spectrum of classical music.” The first album released by the classical imprint will be Bach: The Cello Suites, performed by Jian Wang. He said he was “truly grateful” for the support.

Meanwhile, Blue Note Records China’s first signed artist is INNOUT, a duo comprised of guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. In response, the duo said, “Blue Note represents the musical spirit we have always admired. Partnering with Blue Note Records China is a continuation of our dream and marks a brand-new beginning.”

“For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians. These labels have deeply influenced the way local artists understand, study, and create within these genres,” says Timothy Xu, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China in a press statement. “Through these efforts, we hope to contribute to the growth and appreciation of classical and jazz music in China, and to help bring the richness of Chinese musical expression into deeper dialogue with the world.”

“At UMG, we are committed to supporting the development of diverse music cultures around the world,” adds Adam Granite, Executive Vice President of Market Development at Universal Music Group. “The launch of Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China reflects this vision in action and marks a meaningful step forward in the evolution of our multi-label operations in the market. By combining the global heritage and artistic leadership of these two iconic labels with the market knowledge and cultural insight of our local team, we are creating a stronger platform to connect Chinese talent with global opportunities.”

Format: UK English