MUMBAI: Sir Simon Rattle has signed a new contract with EMI Classics which sees him and EMI Classics extend their exclusive relationship well beyond 30 years. Over the next four years, Rattle will make 12 CDs with EMI Classics.
Project highlights in the next year include Tchaikovsky’s complete Nutcracker Ballet, a programme of American music, headlined with a new commission by Wynton Marsalis, and a programme of works by Schoenberg, including Begleitungsmusik zu einer Lichtspielszene (Music for a Cinematographic Scene).
Being one of only a few conductors today with an exclusive recording contract, the year 2010 also marks the 30th anniversary of Rattle’s exclusive relationship with EMI Classics, a period over which he has recorded more than 250 works for the label.
Rattle said: “In a time where recording contracts are rare enough to be an endangered species, I feel both lucky and privileged to be working further with EMI Classics, my loyal and brave partners of more than 30 years. The orchestra and I are delighted to be able to carry on bringing our music making to a hopefully ever wider audience, and are very touched by the faith of EMI in our partnership.”
EMI Classics Global president Eric Dingman said: "I am delighted about the ongoing partnership with Sir Simon which will continue to produce ground-breaking recordings and projects, adding to the great wealth, depth and breadth of repertoire that Sir Simon is building with EMI Classics.”
EMI Classics vice president Artists and Repertoire Stephen Johns said: "We are thrilled that Sir Simon has agreed to renew his contract once again with EMI Classics. Over the past 30 years, Sir Simon has brought remarkable performances of remarkable music to wide audiences around the world, always opening eyes and ears with his fresh insights and authoritative performances. Nowhere is this more evident than in his relationship with the Berliner Philharmoniker, arguably the greatest orchestra in the world."
