Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Sony Classical Records

Sony Classical Records is an American record label specializing in classical music, established in 1990 as the successor to the Columbia Masterworks and CBS Masterworks labels following Sony Corporation's acquisition of CBS Records in 1988. Its roots trace back to the Columbia Phonograph Company, founded in 1887, with the inaugural Masterworks release occurring in 1927—a recording of Brahms's First Symphony conducted by Felix Weingartner. The label played a pivotal role in the evolution of recorded music, including the introduction of the 33⅓ rpm long-playing (LP) record in 1948, which revolutionized classical music distribution by allowing extended performances on a single disc. Over its history, Sony Classical has been instrumental in pioneering Broadway cast recordings, including the original 1949 cast album of Kiss Me, Kate and the 1956 original cast album of My Fair Lady, and has built a legacy of collaborations with legendary artists such as Leonard Bernstein, Glenn Gould, and Yo-Yo Ma. The label expanded its catalog in the 1990s to include film soundtracks, notably the Grammy-winning score for Titanic in 1997, broadening its reach beyond traditional classical repertoire. Today, Sony Classical continues to release acclaimed recordings featuring contemporary virtuosos like Jonas Kaufmann, Joshua Bell, and ensembles such as the Beethoven for Three trio of Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos, and Yo-Yo Ma, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of the classical music industry.

History

Formation

Sony Corporation, a Japanese multinational conglomerate, acquired the CBS Records Group from CBS Inc. for approximately $2 billion in January 1988, marking a significant expansion into the American music industry. This purchase included the renowned division, previously operated as CBS Masterworks, which had been a cornerstone of ' classical offerings since its origins in the 1920s. The acquisition provided with access to an extensive catalog of classical recordings, including landmark performances by artists such as and the . In April 1990, Sony rebranded and unified its classical operations under the new label Sony Classical Records, succeeding the CBS Masterworks imprint and integrating the broader classical assets from the Columbia legacy. Headquartered in , the label was established to consolidate and promote Sony's growing portfolio of classical, , and , drawing on the technological expertise and global distribution capabilities of its parent company. The initial catalog encompassed thousands of historic titles from the CBS era, emphasizing high-fidelity recordings and innovative production techniques that had defined Masterworks' reputation. Early leadership of Sony Classical was provided by Gunther Breest, who had joined as president of the classical division in 1988 following his tenure at and continued in the role through the label's launch. Breest focused on maintaining artistic excellence in classical and repertoire, overseeing the transition to Sony's branding while prioritizing reissues and new recordings that leveraged the company's advanced recording facilities newly opened in . This foundational period positioned Sony Classical as a major force in the genre, blending tradition with Sony's emphasis on digital innovation.

Key Milestones and Acquisitions

The 2004 merger between Sony Music Entertainment and (BMG) formed , profoundly impacting distribution by integrating Sony Classical with BMG Classics, enabling shared resources, broader catalog access, and enhanced global reach for artists across both entities. Following the 2008 dissolution of the joint venture, Sony Corporation acquired Bertelsmann's 50% stake, regaining full control of the company and relaunching key classical imprints under Sony Music Entertainment, which streamlined operations and revitalized focus on legacy and new recordings.

Recent Developments

In response to the accelerated growth of music streaming during the , Sony Classical intensified its focus on digital platforms starting in 2020, aligning with broader industry trends toward accessible online consumption of . This shift included enhanced distribution on services like , where high-resolution classical playlists featuring Sony artists became prominent, supporting immersive listening experiences for repertoires such as Beethoven and Bach. In 2022, the label launched a major recording initiative with the Kammerakademie under Antonello Manacorda, beginning a complete cycle of Beethoven's symphonies that emphasized fresh interpretations for contemporary audiences, with individual volumes released progressively. This project culminated in a comprehensive in 2024, marking a key effort to revitalize core classical canon through modern production techniques. Sony Classical expanded its historical catalog in 2023 through Masterworks' acquisition of a majority stake in Entertainment, a Barcelona-based live event producer, which bolstered the label's capacity for digital-live classical programming and reissues. Amid the 2024 resurgence of vinyl interest in , Sony Classical issued limited-edition pressings, including the Vienna Philharmonic's New Year's Concert, to cater to collectors seeking tangible formats alongside digital options. By 2025, the label deepened its integration with Sony Pictures for film score releases, announcing soundtracks for Oscar-contending films such as Eagles of the Republic and Sinners, while unveiling a landmark three-volume anthology of John Williams' scores, blending classical orchestration with cinematic narratives. This initiative, complemented by the acquisition of Supraphon—a storied Czech label with extensive classical holdings—further enriched Sony Classical's offerings in both contemporary and archival domains.

Artists and Roster

Solo Artists and Conductors

Sony Classical Records has been home to a distinguished roster of solo artists and conductors, whose recordings have significantly shaped the label's legacy in classical music. These individuals, ranging from virtuoso instrumentalists to acclaimed vocalists and orchestral leaders, have produced landmark albums that blend traditional repertoire with innovative interpretations, often earning critical acclaim and awards. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma joined Sony Classical early in his career, with notable recordings beginning in the 1980s, including his Grammy Award-winning complete recording of Bach's Cello Suites Nos. 1-6 released in 1983. By 1992, Ma's discography with the label expanded to include the collaborative album Hush with Bobby McFerrin, featuring improvisational arrangements of classical and folk pieces, and Brahms's Sonatas for Cello and Piano, Opp. 38, 99, and 108 with pianist Emanuel Ax. These works exemplify Ma's versatility in bridging classical traditions with contemporary and crossover elements, contributing to his 18 Grammy Awards overall. The Beethoven for Three trio, featuring Ma alongside pianist Emanuel Ax and violinist Leonidas Kavakos, has released acclaimed albums such as Beethoven for Three (2017) and Shostakovich: Piano Trios (2022), showcasing their interpretive depth in chamber repertoire. Finnish conductor served as Music Director of the from 1992 to 2009, during which time he recorded extensively for Sony Classical, capturing the orchestra's performances of both standard and contemporary repertoire. His tenure emphasized modern works, including recordings of pieces by composers like and his own compositions, such as the . The 2018 release Esa-Pekka Salonen: The Complete Sony Recordings, a 61-CD , compiles over 30 years of his contributions, highlighting his role in promoting 20th- and 21st-century music through dynamic interpretations. Soprano Renée Fleming's association with Sony Classical began in the early 1990s, featuring opera albums that showcased her lyrical voice in and Romantic repertoire. Her 1994 recording of Rossini's , conducted by Christopher Hogwood with the , marked a significant early release, earning praise for her portrayal of the title role. Other notable Sony outings include the 1993 New Year's Eve Concert 1992: Gala and the 1998 album The Beautiful Voice, which highlighted her versatility across arias and lieder, contributing to multiple Grammy wins for Best Classical Vocal Performance. Tenor joined the roster in the 2010s, with releases like Hero (2016) and Arias (2024), earning acclaim for his dramatic interpretations in operatic repertoire. Pianist 's recordings with Sony Classical, starting prominently in the 2010s, include crossover albums that fuse classical piano with popular and film music influences. His label debut, Lang Lang Live in Vienna (2010), captured a live recital featuring Beethoven's Appassionata alongside Liszt and Chopin works, available in multiple formats including 3D Blu-ray. Subsequent releases like New York (2016) and Romance (2018) explore American composers such as Gershwin and Copland, alongside contemporary collaborations, underscoring his role in broadening classical music's audience. Violinist Hilary Hahn signed an exclusive recording contract with Sony Classical in 1996 at age 16, making her one of the label's youngest artists. Her 2000s discography includes acclaimed violin concerto recordings, such as Barber's Violin Concerto and Meyer’s Concerto for Violin and String Orchestra (2000) with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and Mendelssohn's and Shostakovich's Violin Concertos (2002) with the Oslo Philharmonic. These albums, part of her early formative output compiled in the 2015 The Complete Sony Recordings box set, demonstrate her precise technique and commitment to both Romantic and 20th-century works. Violinist Joshua Bell has been a prominent Sony artist since the 1990s, with recent releases including The Classical Now (2023), featuring new commissions and collaborations to expand classical violin repertoire.

Orchestras and Ensembles

Sony Classical Records has maintained a significant partnership with the since the label's early days as CBS Masterworks, releasing numerous recordings from the orchestra's extensive catalog, particularly those from the era in the 1990s and beyond. These include legacy editions of Bernstein's symphonic interpretations, such as his cycles of Mahler and Beethoven symphonies, captured live at Avery Fisher Hall (now ), which highlight the orchestra's dynamic ensemble sound and Bernstein's interpretive vigor. A comprehensive 65-CD boxed set issued in 2017 compiles over 100 years of the Philharmonic's milestones, underscoring Sony's role in preserving this American institution's recorded history. In , Sony Classical has distributed select releases featuring the through co-licensing arrangements post-2000, drawing from the orchestra's vast archive to compile influential collections. Notable among these is the 2015 eight-CD set Berliner Philharmoniker: Great Recordings, which encompasses landmark performances of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and under conductors like and , emphasizing the ensemble's precision and tonal depth in symphonic repertoire. Additional post-2000 offerings include Abbado's symphony cycles and Giulini's Brahms recordings, reissued to showcase the Philharmonic's collaborative legacy with . Chamber music affiliations include the Emerson String Quartet, which transitioned to an exclusive Sony Classical contract in 2011 after decades with Deutsche Grammophon, enabling recordings that explore intimate ensemble dynamics in 20th- and 21st-century works. Key releases under Sony feature the quartet's interpretations of Schoenberg, Bartók, and contemporary composers like George Tsontakis in albums such as Journeys (2013), where their cohesive phrasing and technical virtuosity shine in mixed-program explorations beyond the standard canon. Choral ensembles like the Vienna Singverein have contributed to Sony Classical's catalog through collaborations on major vocal-symphonic works, including Mahler's symphonies and Mozart's , often paired with the . These recordings capture the choir's renowned blend and dramatic intensity in large-scale choral settings. A longstanding partnership with the dates to the mid-20th century, with Sony releasing archival live concert captures from conductors like Jean Martinon and , focusing on American and French repertoire that showcases the orchestra's brass and string sections. These include complete cycles like Gould's symphonic essays recorded in the at Orchestra Hall, reissued in a 2016 high-fidelity six-CD collection that preserves the energy of live performances. While the launched its own CSO Resound label in 2007 for contemporary recordings, Sony continues to steward select historical material.

Leadership

Presidents

Sony Classical Records has been led by a series of presidents who navigated its evolution from a subsidiary to a global powerhouse under Entertainment. Each leader contributed to catalog expansions, artist acquisitions, and strategic shifts amid industry changes like mergers and digital transitions. Gunther Breest served as president of the classical division from 1988 to 1995, spanning the acquisition of Records by in 1988 and the rebranding to Sony Classical in 1990. During his tenure, Breest oversaw the integration of historic Masterworks recordings into Sony's portfolio, emphasizing technological advancements in recording and distribution inherited from Columbia's legacy. His leadership focused on maintaining the label's reputation for high-fidelity classical releases while adapting to Sony's international expansion. Peter Gelb succeeded Breest as president in 1995, holding the position until 2006 and extending his oversight to international operations by 1995. Gelb, a former artist manager, prioritized crossover initiatives to attract broader audiences, signing high-profile artists like Andrea Bocelli and promoting multimedia projects that blended classical with pop elements. His strategy included controversial emphases on vocal and film soundtracks, which boosted commercial visibility but drew criticism for sidelining traditional repertoire; notable efforts involved partnerships for live recordings and artist development programs. Gelb's era coincided with early digital explorations, setting the stage for the label's adaptation to changing consumption patterns. Following the 2004 Sony BMG merger, Gilbert Hetherwick was appointed president of the newly formed Masterworks in January 2005, a role he held until November 2006. Hetherwick, previously VP/GM of BMG Classics, managed the consolidation of Sony Classical with BMG's Red Seal and other imprints, integrating catalogs that included landmark orchestral and recordings. His brief tenure emphasized cost efficiencies and core repertoire focus amid post-merger restructuring, overseeing releases from ensembles like the while navigating executive downsizing. After a transitional period under senior executives like Alex Miller and David Lai from 2006 to 2009, Bogdan Roscic was named president of Sony Music Classical in April 2009, leading until August 2019. Roscic, with prior experience at Decca and Universal Classics, expanded the roster with conductors such as and contemporary soloists, prioritizing comprehensive artist editions and European co-productions. His initiatives included bolstering the label's presence in and orchestral recordings, such as the complete Sony recordings of Salonen with the , while fostering global partnerships during the shift to streaming platforms. Roscic's departure marked the end of an era focused on archival preservation and new talent scouting. Per Hauber has served as of Sony Classical since September 2019, operating from to oversee international operations. With a background in Sony Music's classical , Hauber has emphasized diversity in programming by signing emerging artists, including cellist in 2023 and pianist in 2025, alongside initiatives in immersive audio and streaming optimization. His leadership has integrated Sony Classical more closely with under Mark Cavell, focusing on live-event tie-ins and global reach while addressing industry challenges. As of November 2025, Hauber's tenure continues to prioritize innovative releases that blend tradition with modern accessibility.

Notable Executives

Chris Craker served as head of classics for Music Entertainment in the mid-2000s before being promoted to A&R for the company's classical division, where he oversaw repertoire development and production for Masterworks releases. During his tenure as and senior of the international division of Masterworks from 2006 to 2008, Craker managed offices in and , contributing to the global expansion of the classical catalog through strategic artist signings and licensing deals. His work included Grammy-nominated productions that bridged classical and contemporary genres, enhancing Sony's presence in crossover markets. In 2007, restructured its classical A&R operations under the Masterworks group, appointing as director of A&R for the International Repertoire Center (IRC), where she focused on curating and signing international artists to bolster the label's diverse roster. Concurrently, Tim Schumacher was named senior director of marketing, international, leading campaigns to promote key releases and expand market reach in and . These roles were pivotal in centralizing A&R efforts post the Sony-BMG merger, enabling more efficient artist development and global distribution of classical recordings. Alexander Buhr joined Sony Classical in 2020 as senior vice president of international A&R and business opportunities, heading the Berlin-based A&R team and directing the label's worldwide artist acquisition strategy. Under his leadership, Buhr launched XXIM Records in 2021, a sub-label dedicated to music, signing emerging talents and fostering innovative projects that blend classical traditions with modern sounds. Buhr's initiatives have emphasized digital-era adaptations, including enhanced streaming optimizations for historical catalogs and new signings of conductors and soloists from underrepresented regions. In the 2020s, Sony Classical's executives have increasingly supported diversity efforts aligned with Sony Music Group's broader inclusion goals, such as amplifying recordings by underrepresented composers through targeted A&R scouting. For instance, signings like pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, who champions works by Black composers including Florence Price and Margaret Bonds, reflect this strategic focus under international A&R oversight. These contributions have helped diversify the label's output, promoting equity in classical music representation without overlapping top-level leadership strategies.

Notable Releases

Award-Winning Recordings

Sony Classical Records has garnered significant recognition in the classical music industry, particularly through awards that highlight artistic excellence in recordings. The label's releases have been honored with numerous since its inception as CBS Masterworks and rebranding to Sony Classical in 1991. These accolades underscore the label's commitment to high-fidelity engineering, interpretive depth, and innovative programming in classical repertoire. One landmark achievement came in 1985 when 's recording of Johann Sebastian Bach's Six Suites for Unaccompanied Cello won the for Best Classical Instrumental Soloist Performance (without orchestra), celebrated for its intimate and profound interpretation that set a benchmark for solo cello performances. This release, originally under CBS Masterworks, exemplified the label's early focus on virtuoso solo works and earned praise for Ma's technical mastery and emotional nuance. Similarly, in 1993, received two for Sony Classical releases: Best Classical Performance, Instrumental Soloist with Orchestra for Antonín Dvořák's with the Symphony Orchestra under , and Best Performance for Johannes Brahms's Sonatas for Cello and Piano with pianist , highlighting the label's strength in collaborative . For the classical categories, Grammy selection involves a voting process by the Recording Academy's classical peers, emphasizing criteria such as , production quality, and overall impact on the genre, with nominees evaluated through blind listening sessions. In the realm of opera and vocal recordings, Sony Classical's catalog has also shone at the Classical BRIT Awards, which recognize outstanding British and international classical contributions based on peer nominations and jury votes focusing on innovation, performance, and cultural significance. Renée Fleming's recordings, including her interpretations of and arias, contributed to her receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award at the 2004 Classical , reflecting the label's role in promoting artistry on the global stage. More recently, in 2025, Sony Classical received Grammy nominations for releases such as Ryuichi Sakamoto's in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category. Beyond Anglo-American honors, Sony Classical has received prestigious European awards like the Diapason d'Or, awarded by France's Diapason magazine for recordings demonstrating exceptional musicality, sound quality, and scholarly value through expert panel review. In 2017, Arcadi Volodos's album Volodos Plays Brahms on Sony Classical won the Diapason d'Or of the Year in the piano category, lauded for its poetic phrasing and technical brilliance in Brahms's late piano pieces. Historical reissues have also been celebrated; while a specific 2018 Toscanini collection did not receive direct confirmation, the label's ongoing Toscanini legacy, including remastered recordings, has earned multiple Diapason d'Or awards for archival excellence in the past decade, emphasizing the preservation of 20th-century conducting icons. These awards collectively affirm Sony Classical's enduring influence on classical recording standards.

Bestselling Albums

Sony Classical Records has achieved notable commercial success through a mix of traditional classical recordings, crossover projects, and reissues, particularly during the CD boom of the when physical sales peaked for the genre. The label's roster includes some of the highest-selling classical artists, with albums frequently topping Billboard's Classical Albums chart and contributing to the division's steady revenue stream within Entertainment. One standout example is cellist Yo-Yo Ma's 1983 recording of Johann Sebastian Bach's Cello Suites, which has become one of the most enduring and commercially viable releases in the classical catalog. Ma's broader discography on Sony Classical underscores his status as one of the best-selling artists in the field, with releases like Appassionato (2007) achieving first-week sales of 9,400 units. Crossover albums blending classical elements with popular appeal have also driven significant sales for Sony Classical, especially in the 2010s. The duo 2Cellos' self-titled debut album, released in 2011, exemplifies this trend by reaching No. 1 on the Top Classical Albums upon release, fueled by viral covers of hits like Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal." Such projects helped expand the label's audience beyond traditional listeners, with the album's success highlighting Sony Classical's strategy to merge genres for broader market penetration. Similarly, pianist Lang Lang's post-2010 Sony releases, including The Chopin Album (2012), have combined virtuoso classical performances with accessible programming, entering the Classical Albums and supporting his role as a high-profile crossover figure. Reissues of historic recordings have bolstered sales, particularly in the 1990s when compact discs dominated the market and classical buyers sought comprehensive collections. Sony Classical's catalog includes remastered editions of landmark orchestral works, such as Herbert von Karajan's Beethoven symphony cycles, which saw strong performance through boxed sets like the 1990 release of the nine symphonies with the Berlin Philharmonic, capitalizing on the era's demand for affordable, high-quality digital formats. These reissues contributed to the label's commercial peak, as CD sales for classical music surged alongside the overall industry's growth before declining sharply in the 2000s. Sales trends for Sony Classical reflect broader shifts in the recorded : robust growth in the driven by CD adoption, a downturn in the amid the rise of streaming services that fragmented physical sales, and a partial resurgence in by 2023, though classical has lagged behind pop and rock in this revival due to niche collector interest. Streaming has sustained visibility for top titles, with Yo-Yo Ma's Bach Suite No. 1 Prélude amassing hundreds of millions of global streams as of 2025. Overall, these dynamics position Sony Classical as a key contributor to Music's diverse portfolio, emphasizing evergreen catalog sales over fleeting hits.

Imprints and Operations

Subsidiary Labels

Sony Classical Records operates through several prominent subsidiary imprints under the Sony Masterworks umbrella, each focusing on distinct niches within classical and related genres while leveraging the parent company's resources. RCA Red Seal, a historic classical music imprint dating back to the early 20th century, specializes in orchestral, operatic, and concert performances by elite artists, including legendary recordings by conductors like Arturo Toscanini and vocalists such as Enrico Caruso. Following the 2004 merger of Sony Music Entertainment and Bertelsmann Music Group, RCA Red Seal was integrated into Sony BMG Masterworks and now functions as a key component of Sony Classical's catalog, preserving and releasing high-caliber classical repertoire. Deutsche Harmonia Mundi, acquired by in 1992 and subsequently brought under Entertainment through the 2004 merger, concentrates on from the and periods, as well as select contemporary classical works, emphasizing authentic performances on period instruments. This imprint maintains its dedication to specialized historical repertoires, contributing unique offerings to Classical's diverse portfolio. Milan Records, acquired by in 2019, specializes in film and television soundtracks, expanding Sony Classical's reach into cinematic scores and related genres. Broadway serves as the dedicated outlet for musical theater soundtracks and original cast recordings, bridging classical traditions with productions since its establishment in the mid-2000s as part of the expansion. It handles releases and reissues of iconic shows, such as remastered albums from works, appealing to crossover audiences interested in theatrical music. These imprints enjoy operational autonomy in artist selection and repertoire curation, allowing specialized focus, while sharing Sony Music Entertainment's global distribution infrastructure to reach international markets efficiently.

Distribution and Global Reach

Sony Classical Records' releases in the United States are distributed through Sony Music Entertainment's internal networks, which handle both physical media such as and , as well as digital formats including downloads and streaming. This structure ensures wide availability across retail and online platforms within the domestic market. Internationally, Sony Classical operates through Sony Music's global infrastructure, with key offices supporting localized releases and marketing. The label maintains a presence in , serving as the European headquarters for classical operations since , facilitating distribution across the continent. Additional hubs include for UK and broader European activities, and as part of Sony Corporation's corporate oversight for regions. These locations enable tailored strategies for regional markets, including partnerships for content licensing and promotion. In the digital realm, Sony Classical's catalog is integrated with major streaming services like Spotify and Amazon Music, benefiting from Sony Music's expanded multi-year agreements that enhance global accessibility and artist promotion. This integration has contributed to classical music's growing share in streaming, though specific metrics for Sony Classical remain part of broader industry trends where classical accounts for approximately 0.9% of total streams in the US as of 2023. Navigating has involved challenges such as regional licensing and regulatory hurdles, notably the European Union's antitrust review of the 2004 Sony BMG merger. In 2008, the overturned a lower court's of the Commission's approval, restoring the merger but highlighting ongoing scrutiny of in music . Such issues have shaped Sony Classical's approach to expansion, emphasizing compliance in diverse markets.

References

  1. [1]
    About - Sony Classical
    The first release on Masterworks, Columbia's new classical label, came in 1927: Brahms's First Symphony conducted by Felix Weingartner. The company's US ...
  2. [2]
    sonyclassical — News - Jensen Artists
    Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos, and Yo-Yo Ma announce the fourth album in their Beethoven for Three series, out August 22, 2025 on Sony Classical and available ...
  3. [3]
    Sony and CBS Records: What a Romance! - The New York Times
    Sep 18, 1988 · After 13 months of frustration, Sony's quest to acquire CBS Records, the largest record company in the world, was near fruition.
  4. [4]
    Sony Classical's president Gunther Breest intends to carry out his ...
    Apr 22, 1990 · The key figure, as regards talent, is Gunther Breest. Ohda lured him away from the all-powerful firm of Deutsche Grammophon (a.k.a. DG). Breest ...
  5. [5]
    FAQ - Sony Music
    What does Sony Music do? At Sony Music Entertainment, we honor the creative journey. Our creators shape movements, culture, communities, even history.Sony · Contacts · Send Us Feedback
  6. [6]
    [PDF] Annual Report 1991 - Sony
    recordings by the late Vladimir Horowitz and John Williams with the Boston Pops. Sony Classical also opened new record- ing facilities in New York and ...
  7. [7]
    Sony Classical's Debut Lacks Adventure - Los Angeles Times
    Jun 17, 1990 · Two months ago in these pages, Gunther Breest, the president of Sony Classical, the new major label on the block, noted that he wasn't happy ...
  8. [8]
    RCA Red Seal Discography | Discogs
    ### Summary for RCA Red Seal
  9. [9]
    [PDF] Sony Music Entertainment and BMG Unite to Create
    Aug 5, 2004 · The joint venture will encompass some of the most influential and successful record labels in the world, and a wide array of artists, including ...Missing: impact | Show results with:impact
  10. [10]
    Sony to Purchase Bertelsmann's 50% Stake in Sony BMG
    Aug 5, 2008 · Sony Corporation and Bertelsmann AG today announced that Sony has agreed to acquire Bertelsmann's 50% stake in Sony BMG.
  11. [11]
    Deutsche Harmonia Mundi Discography | Discogs
    ### Deutsche Harmonia Mundi Summary
  12. [12]
    Apple Music Classical is here
    Mar 28, 2023 · Apple today launched Apple Music Classical, a brand-new app designed to deliver the listening experience classical music lovers deserve.Missing: 2020 | Show results with:2020
  13. [13]
    Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1, 2 & 7 - Sony Classical
    Oct 7, 2022 · Symphonies 5 & 6 will follow later in 2023, with the complete boxset out Fall 2024. Beethoven has long played a central role in the concerts ...Missing: vinyl | Show results with:vinyl
  14. [14]
    Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies - Sony Classical
    Antonello Manacorda will complete their new Beethoven cycle with the release of all nine Symphonies in a special boxset out on Sony Classical on May 3.Missing: vinyl | Show results with:vinyl
  15. [15]
    Sony Music Masterworks acquires live music and events company ...
    May 19, 2023 · Sony Music Masterworks, a division of Sony Music Entertainment (SME), has acquired a majority stake in Barcelona-headquartered Proactiv Entertainment.Missing: developments | Show results with:developments
  16. [16]
    Neujahrskonzert 2024 / New Year's Concert 2024 - Sony Classical
    The live recording of the 2024 New Year's Concert can now be ordered and is available on CD and digitally as well as on DVD, Blu-ray & Vinyl.
  17. [17]
    https://classical.music.apple.com/us/album/435113565
  18. [18]
    Sony Music Acquires Supraphon in Czech Republic
    Sony Music Entertainment (SME) announced today the acquisition of Supraphon, one of the Czech Republic's most dynamic and influential music labels.Missing: Nimbus | Show results with:Nimbus
  19. [19]
    Hush (Remastered) by Yo-Yo Ma - Apple Music Classical
    Listen to Hush (Remastered) by Yo-Yo Ma. 1992. 13 tracks. 47 minutes ... Sony Classical. On This Album. Yo-Yo Ma. Cello · Bobby McFerrin. Vocals ...Missing: recordings | Show results with:recordings
  20. [20]
    Brahms: Sonatas for Cello & Piano - Amazon.com
    30-day returnsProduct information. Original Release Date, ‎1992. Label, ‎Sony Classical ... Yo-Yo Ma. Audio CD · Beethoven: The String Quartets. Amazon's Choice. Beethoven ...
  21. [21]
    Yo-Yo Ma - Sony Classical
    His most recent release, “Sing Me Home,” recorded with the Silk Road Ensemble, was released in April 2016 as the companion album to documentary film The Music ...
  22. [22]
    Esa-Pekka Salonen - The Complete Sony Recordings
    May 4, 2018 · Available May 4, 2018, "Esa-Pekka Salonen: The Complete Sony Recordings" is the largest collection to date of the work of this vital figure in ...Missing: Records LA Philharmonic 1990s
  23. [23]
    Esa-Pekka Salonen Box Set - The Complete Sony Recordings (61 ...
    30-day returnsFew artists are as multifaceted as Esa-Pekka Salonen, Music Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic from 1992-2009 and currently its Conductor Laureate, ...Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
  24. [24]
    Rossini: Armida / Gatti, Fleming, Kunde, Francis, et al by Renée ...
    Free deliveryRossini: Armida / Gatti, Fleming, Kunde, Francis, et al by Renée Fleming (CD, Oct-1994, 3 Discs, Sony Classical) for sale online | eBay.Missing: discography | Show results with:discography
  25. [25]
    Renée Fleming CD 1997 Classical Sony Classical | eBay
    Experience the exquisite vocal artistry of Renée Fleming in her self-titled 1997 debut album, released by Sony Classical. This album features a stunning ...
  26. [26]
    Sony Classical Releases LANG LANG 'LIVE IN VIENNA' on August ...
    Recorded and filmed live in Vienna's legendary Musikverein concert hall, the Sony Classical debut will be available on August 24 in multiple formats. This ...
  27. [27]
    Lang Lang - New York Rhapsody | CD - Sony Classical
    Sep 16, 2016 · From the haunting reveries of Gershwin and Copland to the in-the-moment intensity of songs made famous by Alicia Keys, Lou Reed and Don Henley, ...Missing: debut | Show results with:debut
  28. [28]
    Classical Album of the Week: Pianist Lang Lang's Romance - WRTI
    Mar 5, 2018 · The album Romance is a luscious collection of works by composers ranging from JS Bach to cinema composer Hans Zimmer.Missing: debut 2003
  29. [29]
    Hilary Hahn, violin - David Friedlander
    Recognizing Hahn's promise, Sony Classical signed her to an exclusive recording contract in 1996 that made her one of the youngest exclusive artists in the ...
  30. [30]
    Barber & Meyer: Violin Concertos: CDs & Vinyl - Amazon.com
    These two American violin concertos, written 60 years apart, were both commissioned for a young virtuoso but are basically songful and lyrical.Missing: contracts | Show results with:contracts
  31. [31]
    https://www.amazon.com/Barber-Meyer-Concertos-Hilary-Hahn/dp/B00004RBXW
  32. [32]
    New York Philharmonic - Sony Classical
    Its foundation in 1842 makes it the oldest orchestra in the United States, and among the oldest in the world. It remains a leading cultural institution today.
  33. [33]
    100 Years of New York Philharmonic Milestones, by the Earful
    Jan 19, 2017 · The orchestra, which cut its first record on Jan. 20, 1917, has made more than 2000 recordings. A boxed set of 65 CDs from Sony ClassicalMissing: partnership | Show results with:partnership
  34. [34]
    https://www.sonyclassical.com/artists/artist-details/new-york-philharmonic
  35. [35]
    Claudio Abbado Conducts Mozart | CD - Sony Classical
    Apr 27, 2018 · This new 5-CD edition presents selected works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in recordings by the Berlin Philharmonic under Claudio Abbado.
  36. [36]
    The Complete Sony Recordings by Carlo Maria Giulini
    I. Adagio - Allegro. Carlo Maria Giulini, Berlin Philharmonic · 13:03 ; II. Andante con moto. Berlin Philharmonic, Carlo Maria Giulini · 10:08 ; III. Menuetto, ...
  37. [37]
    Emerson Quartet signs recording contract with Sony after 24 years ...
    Mar 30, 2011 · The Emerson Quartet has signed an exclusive recording contract with Sony Classical. The new deal brings to an end the ensemble's long ...
  38. [38]
    https://classical.music.apple.com/ca/album/860574244
  39. [39]
    Wiener Singverein | Spotify
    The Singverein has made hundreds of recordings over the years, many of them available on such major labels as Chandos, Decca, DG, EMI, Philips, and Sony. The ...
  40. [40]
    Wiener Philharmoniker - New Year's Concert 2023 | CD
    Jan 7, 2023 · There are few concerts in the world that are awaited with as much excitement as the New Year's Concert from Vienna.
  41. [41]
    https://open.spotify.com/artist/35QSympF887CO8h5eZHme2
  42. [42]
    Jean Martinon - The Complete CSO Recordings
    Jean Martinon - The Complete CSO Recordings ; I. Allegro. Donald Koss, Gordon Peters, Jean Martinon, Chicago Symphony Orchestra · 10:16 ; II. Poco allegretto.
  43. [43]
    Sony Classical | from the archives
    Sir Georg Solti, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's eighth music director, recorded the Enigma Variations on May 15, 1974, at Medinah Temple for London Records.<|separator|>
  44. [44]
    Sony Classical Confirms Resignation of Its President
    Jan 5, 1995 · Gunther Breest, the president of the classical record division of Sony since 1988, has resigned his position.
  45. [45]
    Peter Gelb, General Manager - Metropolitan Opera
    Peter Gelb. Maria Manetti Shrem General Manager. Peter Gelb's career has ... Gelb was president of Sony Classical, one of the largest international classical ...
  46. [46]
    The Epic Ups and Downs of Peter Gelb - The New York Times
    Mar 21, 2013 · Peter Gelb at the Metropolitan Opera with the sopranos Anna Netrebko ... He eventually emerged as the president of Sony Classical, with ...
  47. [47]
    How Did I Get Here? Peter Gelb - Bloomberg
    Peter Gelb, general manager of the Metropolitan Opera, is proud to be a Yale ... 1993–2004. President, Sony Classical. 2005–Present. General manager-elect ...
  48. [48]
    Hetherwick To Head Sony BMG Classical - Billboard
    Jan 12, 2005 · Hetherwick, who has been VP/GM of BMG Classics since 2003, succeeds former Sony Classical president Peter Gelb, who in October was named GM of ...
  49. [49]
    Sony BMG Classical - Report - The New York Times
    The president of Sony BMG Masterworks, Gilbert Hetherwick, was toppled from his position after less than two years in the job.
  50. [50]
    Roscic Heads Up Sony Classical - Billboard
    Jan 27, 2009 · Bogdan Roscic has been appointed president, Sony Music Classical by Sony CEO Rolf Scmidt-Holtz. Effective April 6, the newly created role ...
  51. [51]
    SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT PROMOTES MARK CAVELL AND ...
    Sep 23, 2019 · Based in New York, Cavell will become President of Sony Masterworks and Hauber will become President of Sony Classical, based in Berlin.
  52. [52]
    Sony Executive to Lead Vienna Opera - The New York Times
    Dec 21, 2016 · And on Wednesday, the Vienna State Opera announced that its next artistic director would be Bogdan Roscic, one of Mr. Gelb's successors at Sony, ...
  53. [53]
    Sony Music Promotes Mark Cavell and Per Hauber - Variety
    Sep 23, 2019 · Sony Music Entertainment today announced the promotions of Mark Cavell and Per Hauber to lead the Company's Classical, Jazz, Broadway and non-traditional contemporary music business. Based in New York, Cavell will become President of Sony Masterworks and Hauber will become President of Sony Classical, based in Berlin.
  54. [54]
    Rumblings of Major Sony Classical Layoffs Emerge
    Apr 15, 2025 · The label was renamed in 1980 to CBS Masterworks Records, and renamed again in 1990 after its acquisition by Sony in 1988. Sony Classical ...
  55. [55]
    Alexander Malofeev - Sony Classical
    Apr 10, 2025 · On the signing of this exclusive agreement with Alexander Malofeev, Per Hauber, President, Sony Classical noted: “Alexander Malofeev is ...
  56. [56]
    Goodbye Sony/BMG... - The Classical Music Guide Forums
    According to a label statement, Masterworks will be folded into the Commercial Music Group, part of a cost-cutting realignment designed to adapt to the "new ...
  57. [57]
    About - Chris Craker
    CHRIS CRAKER is a rare animal in the music business. He combines a life ... Sony Classical and BMG Classics. Now the owner and founder of Karma Studios ...
  58. [58]
    Chris Craker - Crunchbase Person Profile
    Chris was General Manager and Senior Vice President of the International Division of Sony BMG Masterworks, in both London and New York until April 2008 when he ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  59. [59]
    Sony BMG Rejigs Classical A&R Structure - Billboard
    May 18, 2007 · IRC. As part of the move Tim Schumacher has been named senior director of marketing, international, and Silke Zimmermann has been named director ...
  60. [60]
    Alexander Buhr to head up Sony Classical A&R - Gramophone
    Apr 29, 2020 · Alexander Buhr is joining Sony Classical to run the label's Berlin-based A&R operation, and oversee the label's international A&R strategy.
  61. [61]
    Sony Music Masterworks launches XXIM Records
    Jan 29, 2021 · Sony Music Masterworks has launched XXIM Records, an all-new imprint focused on the development of innovative, progressive instrumental music around the world.
  62. [62]
    Dr. Alexander Buhr – Executive Vice President International A&R ...
    - Overseeing the international A&R strategy for Sony Masterworks and Sony Classical - Launch and management of alternative instrumental music label XXIM Records
  63. [63]
    Diversity, Equity & Inclusion - Sony Music
    Sony Music develops initiatives, experiences and programming to actualize and advance our core diversity, equity and inclusion values and beliefs.Missing: Classical 2020s
  64. [64]
    Jeneba Kanneh-Mason - Sony Classical
    Apr 25, 2024 · Jeneba Kanneh-Mason. 04/25/2024. Sony Classical is delighted to announce the exclusive signing of pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, who ...
  65. [65]
    https://www.sonymusic.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/
  66. [66]
    Cellist Yo-Yo Ma wins two Grammys - UPI Archives
    Feb 25, 1993 · Cellist Yo-Yo Ma wins two Grammys. Feb. 25, 1993. LOS ANGELES -- Cellist Yo-Yo Ma added two new awards to his collection Wednesday night ...
  67. [67]
    https://www.grammy.com/artists/yo-yo-ma/11918
  68. [68]
    Renee Fleming | Biography, Music, & Facts - Britannica
    Fleming won numerous honors, including the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award at the 2004 Classical BRIT Awards and the National Medal of Arts in 2013.
  69. [69]
    Arcadi Volodos - Sony Classical
    76. Immediately considered a landmark on the music scene, the album has been awarded in November 2017 with the Edison Classical Award and the Diapason d'Or and ...
  70. [70]
    WINNER OF THE 'DIAPASON D'OR 2017' AWARD - Arcadi Volodos
    Nov 24, 2017 · Arcadi Volodos has been awarded with the 'Diapason D'Or 2017' prize for the best piano album due to 'Volodos Plays Brahms' (Sony Classical).
  71. [71]
    https://www.sonyclassical.com/news/news-details/grammy-awards-2025
  72. [72]
    https://www.sonyclassical.com/artists/artist-details/arcadi-volodos-1
  73. [73]
    Area 51: The cellist in charge - Variety
    Jan 17, 2007 · “Appassionato” (Sony Classical) posted Ma's biggest sales week of his career, selling 9,400 copies in the week ending Sunday, according to ...Missing: figures | Show results with:figures
  74. [74]
    Lang Lang: The Chopin Album | CD - Sony Classical
    Dec 14, 2012 · Lang Lang: The Chopin Album. Artists. /Lang Lang. Release Date: 12/14/2012. More releases. New York Rhapsody · Mission Mozart · Lang Lang in ...Missing: 2007 Yellow
  75. [75]
    https://variety.com/2007/music/news/area-51-the-cellist-in-charge-1117957574/
  76. [76]
    How the compact disc lost its shine | Music | The Guardian
    May 28, 2015 · The compact disc became “the fastest-growing home entertainment product in history”. CD sales overtook vinyl in 1988 and cassettes in 1991.
  77. [77]
    Why isn't there a vinyl resurgence in classical music?
    Nov 17, 2024 · We've seen a vinyl resurgence in pop and jazz music coming for many years... but for some reason, this hasn't translated into the classical music market.
  78. [78]
    Sony Masterworks Launches MASTERWORKSBROADWAY.COM
    RCA Red Seal, Sony Classical, deutsche harmonia mundi, Masterworks Broadway and Masterworks Jazz are labels of Sony Masterworks. For email updates and ...
  79. [79]
    RCA (label) - Buy classical music recordings | Presto Music
    ### Summary of RCA Red Seal
  80. [80]
    Sony Masterworks Broadway Releases Remastered Versions of ...
    Aug 11, 2023 · Sony Masterworks Broadway has released remixed and remastered original cast recordings of Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, ...
  81. [81]
    Sony Music - Official Website
    Global Podcast Division · Legacy Recordings · Masterworks · Provident Label Group · RCA Records · RCA Inspiration · Santa Anna Records · Sony Classical · Sony ...Missing: 2004 | Show results with:2004
  82. [82]
    Sony Masterworks | The Official Sony Masterworks Site
    Latest News · MARCIN'S DEBUT ALBUM “DRAGON IN HARMONY” OUT SEPTEMBER 13 · RYUICHI SAKAMOTO “OPUS” OUT AUGUST 9 · Third Album In Beethoven for Three Series Out Now!Missing: history | Show results with:history
  83. [83]
    Sony Music Moves Germany and Europe HQ to Berlin - Billboard
    Oct 6, 2020 · It brings under one roof Sony Music Germany, Switzerland and Austria; Sony's international classical music entities; its international team ...
  84. [84]
    Contacts - Sony Music
    Worldwide Offices. Sony Music Classical and Sony Classical International. Phone: +49 30 13888 0. Sony Music Entertainment Argentina. Phone: +54 11 3988 9400.
  85. [85]
    Sony Music UK Headquarters - London | Office Snapshots
    May 9, 2018 · MoreySmith first designed the executive office suites in London – the success of which led to being comissioned to create a 97,000 sq ft ...Missing: Classical Tokyo
  86. [86]
    About - Sony Music Entertainment Europe
    Sony Music today is where music and entertainment meets technology. About. The company is managed by Christoph Behm, CEO of Sony Music Entertainment GSA.
  87. [87]
    Sony Music Group and Spotify Announce Expanded, Multi-Year ...
    Sep 18, 2025 · Spotify's agreement with Sony Music Publishing includes a new direct licensing arrangement in the U.S., ensuring songwriters share more directly ...Missing: Classical Amazon
  88. [88]
    Spotify and Amazon Ads announce programmatic partnership
    Oct 1, 2025 · Advertisers using Amazon DSP will have access to Spotify's streaming audio and video ad inventory, enabling omnichannel activation at scale.Missing: Sony Classical
  89. [89]
    Music Streaming Services Stats (2025) - Exploding Topics
    Apr 24, 2025 · Spotify claims over 30% of the music streaming market share (MIDiA) ... Classic, 0.9%. Jazz, 0.8%. Key Takeaways. It's clear that music ...
  90. [90]
    EU court says Sony and Bertelsmann merger approval was flawed
    The European Union's highest court ruled Thursday that a lower court made several mistakes when it overturned regulatory approval ...
  91. [91]
    European Court of Justice Overturns CFI's Impala Judgment and ...
    Jul 14, 2008 · The European Court of Justice (ECJ), overturned a 2006 judgment by the Court of First Instance (CFI) concerning the merger of Sony and Bertelsmann Music Group' ...