Classical labels line up PBS-friendly crossover fare

Reuters/Billboard - by Anastasia Tsioulcas

NEW YORK (Billboard) - Fall is always a big time for classical crossover releases, and the incoming class of 2007 is no exception.

Once again, labels are largely counting on the reliable combo of name recognition and prime PBS placement to drive sales and, they hope, shake such household names as Josh Groban and Il Divo from their perches atop the chart. And once again, the aesthetic lines between the "traditional classical" and "classical crossover" categories are fairly blurry: It's all down to sales and marketing angles.

Singer Sissel has moved from Decca to Savoy Label Group's Denon imprint to release the CD/DVD "Northern Lights" featuring tenor Jose Carreras. The project coincides with a December PBS pledge special shot in her native Norway.

Denon's superstar artist, violinist Andre Rieu, whose shows are a PBS fund-drive staple, returns September 11 with a "Live From Radio City Music Hall" CD and DVD (as well as a CD/DVD combo with exclusive video).

Reuters/Billboard