The future of Deutsche Grammophon is spelled out

The way ahead was laid out by Max Hole, chief operating officer of Universal Music, at a party celebrating the market-leading label’s move to Berlin.

Here’s what Max said:

“Since I took responsibility for Universal’s global classical music operations, we have renewed our commitment to developing classical music and our artists around the world.  We have put classical music back into the centre of our business. I believe that music matters – it’s not just an economic imperative.  Music is important, both culturally and emotionally.  Music is the soundtrack to people’s lives.  We need to protect it.  The move back to Berlin is another step in our total commitment to Deutsche Grammophon, to its artists and to music.”

That’s the biggest vote of confidence any classical label has received in 15 years. It deserves universal applause.

Myself, I would join in with both hands, if only DG had not just sent me a cafe-music release titled Cigala&Tango and an Indian-pop compilation by Anoushka Shankar. Neither fulfils any conceivable definition of classical music. DG has some way to go to rid itself of Chris Roberts habits.

Max, just say no to this stuff.

Max Hole with a recovering tenor