If you ever thought that multi million pound record deals were only for the likes of international popstars then think again.

Trio

The International Staff Band of the Salvation Army has bagged a £1 million contract for the first of a trio of releases on the massive Universal label.

The story was featured in The Times newspaper today, with the band joining the ranks of the company artists such as Amy Winehouse and Eminem.

Universal are delighted to have signed the world’s ultimate buskers. They should give ‘Take That’ a run for their moneyUniversal MD, Dickon Stainer

Together

The first release will be called ‘Together’ and will feature, religious, secular and operatic tracks, including ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ and ‘Nessun Dorma’.

It is due to be released at the end of November and Universal, which is also reported to be spending £1 million on promoting the band, predicts that the record will go platinum by Christmas.

No pay

Although none of the band’s 32 amateur musicians will earn anything personally, it is understood that Universal is making an undisclosed donation to the charity.

The fantastically named Dickon Stainer, managing director of Universal Classics and Jazz, told The Times: "Universal are delighted to have signed the world’s ultimate buskers. They should give ‘Take That’ a run for their money."

http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/music/article4902958.ece