Naxos Recordings have told 4BR that not only have they been delighted at the commercial success of their latest chart topping CD featuring Black Dyke Band performing works by the celebrated choral composer John Rutter, but also by the response it has received from critics and listeners alike.

Chart topper

'John Rutter: Anthems, Hymns and Gloria for Brass Band' reached number 1 in the official classical music charts just a fortnight after its release, as well as going on to feature highly in 'Best Seller' charts from retailers such as Amazon.

After being featured as 'Album of the Week' on the Classic fm radio station, sales "exploded"according a spokesperson from Naxos, with enquiries from broadcasters and customers across the globe.

Broad appeal

"We are of course delighted at the success,"they told 4BR. "although we did feel that the combination of John Rutter's wonderful music being played by the world's most famous brass band was a combination that would have a very broad appeal.

The media attention of course helped and after being featured on Classic fm sales really exploded, although it was already making an impressive mark on the classical music charts."

Quality

They added: "We think its show that outstanding music performed by world class performers will always have a wide appeal, and the response from listeners and critics confirms this to us.

Naxos has gained a respected reputation for identifying and promoting quality in many different musical genres and we always look for combinations that will find a new audience.

Our congratulations go to Prof Childs, Black Dyke and everyone associated with the release. It also shows that world class brass releases also have commercial and critical appeal — and we have been delighted to have played our part in that over the years with many artists."

We think its show that outstanding music performed by world class performers will always have a wide appeal, and the response from listeners and critics confirms this to usNaxos

More brass

Naxos also told 4BR that although the Coronavirus pandemic has hit recording schedules they will be able to release another brass band CD in the near future.

"We were hopeful of releasing another CD before the end of the year featuring another top UK brass band, but unfortunately the recording has been put on hold.

Fingers are crossed for next year and to see what other ideas we can come up with. More than ever brass bands need to continue to attract an audience that appreciates their musical excellence, not just their desire to compete against each other.

Black Dyke has certainly done that with this release and we hope others at all levels will follow their lead."

Buy CD

You can buy the album direct from Black Dyke Band at:
https://www.blackdykeshop.co.uk/