Universal Music Group launches classical and jazz arms for China

Universal Music Greater China, a division of Universal Music Group, is expanding its footprint in China's music scene with the launch of Deutsche Grammophon China and Blue Note Records China — two new label imprints aimed at nurturing local talent and connecting Chinese artists with global audiences.

Announced on Thursday in Shanghai, the new ventures mark the first time these legendary labels — known respectively for classical and jazz excellence — will operate dedicated arms in China. The initiative signals a broader move by Universal Music to support and amplify original Chinese artistry across genres with strong cultural roots.

"For decades, Deutsche Grammophon and Blue Note have had a special place in the hearts of Chinese musicians," said Timothy Xu, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Greater China. "Today, we're taking a step further by establishing localized platforms that can directly engage with artists, audiences, and the broader creative ecosystem."

Deutsche Grammophon, often regarded as the gold standard for classical recordings, will launch its China imprint with a new recording by acclaimed Chinese cellist Wang Jian. Set for release on May 23, Bach: The Cello Suites, is a revisitation of a repertoire Wang first recorded two decades ago, now reinterpreted through years of performance and reflection.

"Bach's Cello Suites have been the cornerstone of my artistic life," Wang said. "This new recording reflects my evolving understanding and relationship with these masterpieces. I'm grateful to DG China for making it possible."

Looking ahead, DG China will collaborate with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra on a major multiyear project to record and release the complete Shostakovich symphonies by 2029, in celebration of the orchestra's 150th anniversary. The effort will be led by conductor Yu Long, who will also serve as an artistic adviser to DG China alongside pianists Lang Lang and Yuja Wang — three of the most internationally recognized Chinese classical musicians and longtime DG artists.

"The Shostakovich project is more than a tribute; it's a statement about the depth and maturity of Chinese musical interpretation today," said Yu.

On the jazz front, Blue Note Records China is launching with a strong emphasis on artistic discovery and cross-cultural collaboration. Its first signing is INNOUT, an experimental jazz duo featuring guitarist Xiao Jun and drummer An Yu. Known for their improvisational style, the pair treat each performance as a live act of exploration.

"Xiao Jun and An Yu are among the most original musicians I've encountered," said Don Was, president of Blue Note Records. "Their music challenges and redefines what jazz can be."

To strengthen ties with China's jazz community, Blue Note China will partner with JZ Music, a leading promoter and hub for jazz in the country. The collaboration will support artist development through live performances, festival appearances, and touring opportunities.

Both new labels are built around long-term commitments to local talent and cultural engagement, rather than simply distributing international repertoire.

"These aren't just extensions of global brands — they're local engines for artistic growth," said Xu. "We want to empower Chinese musicians to share their voices more widely, while helping classical and jazz evolve through deeper dialogue with China's rich musical heritage."