On September 2, Berlin welcomed the return of Deutsche Grammophon. The iconic recording label moved from Hamburg to the German capital to become closer to its parent company, Universal Music Germany, which relocated in 2002. The label will operate autonomously from Universal’s German headquarters in the Osthafen district of Berlin.

“Since I took responsibility for Universal’s global classical music operations, we have renewed our commitment to developing classical music and our artists around the world,” said Universal chief operating officer Max Hole. “We have put classical music back into the centre of our business. I believe that music matters – it’s not just an economic imperative.  Music is important, both culturally and emotionally.  Music is the soundtrack to people’s lives. We need to protect it. The move back to Berlin is another step in our total commitment to Deutsche Grammophon, to its artists and to music.”

In celebration of DG's return to Berlin, some 400 guests were entertained by performances from Rolando Villazón, Miloš Karadaglic, Alice Sara Ott, Lisa Batiashvili and Patricia Petibon at Universal's offices in the city.

Founded in Hannover in 1898 by brothers Emile and Joseph Berliner, Deutsche Grammophon has been home to a high calibre of artists throughout the years. Anne-Sophie Mutter, Gustavo Dudamel, Hélène Grimaud, Daniel Hope, Maurizio Pollini, Thomas Quasthoff and Hilary Hahn are among many successful musicians who have held contracts with the label.

Group photo left to right: Rolando Villazón, Max Hole, Lisa Batiashvili, Alice Sara Ott, Michael Lang, Patricia Petibon, Frank Briegmann and Miloš Karadaglic