Universal Music has announced the launch of Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China, Chinese-specific imprints of the iconic classical and jazz labels. According to a statement by Universal, the new labels will ‘focus on identifying and supporting rising Chinese talent, fostering original creativity, and building pathways for Chinese musicians to connect with global audiences.’

Three long-standing and major DG artists will act as Artistic Advisors to DG China: pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang, and conductor and Music Director of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Long Yu.

Timothy Xu, Chairman & CEO of Universal Music Greater China, said: ‘For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have held a special place in the hearts of Chinese classical and jazz musicians’ - echoing comments Long Yu made to Gramophone a number of years ago when signing to the DG label. ‘These labels have deeply influenced the way local artists understand, study, and create within these genres … DG China and Blue Note Records China will be fully committed to discovering and supporting the next generation of talent emerging from China. 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.’

Clemens Trautmann, President of DG and New Business Strategy Global Classics added: ‘In the past decade Deutsche Grammophon has hugely increased its visibility in the vibrant Chinese classical music market, with the 120th anniversary gala concert in the Forbidden City, the re-signing of Lang Lang, and the comprehensive collaboration with Long Yu and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. We are proud to co-invest in the future generation of outstanding classical performers from Greater China … to foster the success of amazing new talent across recording, touring and brand partnerships.’ 

Lang Lang also added: ‘I believe DG China will be a key platform for emerging Chinese musicians and help connect classical music with broader audiences. I also hope it will bring more Chinese voices to the global stage – a mission I deeply believe in and am proud to be part of.’

The first release on DG China will be out this Friday (May 23) and feature Bach’s Cello Suites, performed Jian Wang, who returns to the works 20 years after first recording them for DG. ‘Bach’s Cello Suites have been the most important works in my life as a cellist,’ said the cellist. ‘Over the past two decades, I have approached them with deep reverence, constantly exploring new interpretations and artistic insights. On the 20th anniversary of my previous recording on Deutsche Grammophon, I felt a profound urge to revisit these masterpieces — to document my evolving understanding and reflections in a new rendition.’

Forthcoming releases will include the complete Shostakovich Symphonies with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra in 2029, commemorating the orchestra’s 150th anniversary.