For years, Christopher Roberts has ranked among the leading executives in the recording industry, in part thanks to his innovations as president of Universal Music Group’s Classics and Jazz Division. Before he left Universal Music to develop Robisong Consultants, he directed the operations of iconic labels that included Deutsche Grammophon, Verve, and Decca. During this time, Christopher Roberts executive-produced or supported the production of pioneering albums showcasing the talent of artists such as Renee Fleming, Cecilia Bartoli, and Andrea Bocelli. Furthermore, Roberts’ work with pop stars Sting and Elvis Costello resulted in successful crossover albums that remain popular.
Costello’s mature career features several examples in the classical idiom, including his dramatic orchestral score for Il Sogno, issued in 2004. Costello also wrote songs and produced a rock crossover album for mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter on Deutsche Grammophon, entitled For the Stars. But his most enduring classical work may be The Juliet Letters, on which he collaborated with the Brodsky String Quartet after discovering their mutual musical admiration. On The Juliet Letters, based on the Shakespeare character, Costello performs his own compositions and others crafted by members of the quartet.
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Christopher Roberts, president of Universal Music Group’s Classics and Jazz division, is known for having modernized the way the classical music business operates. Over his 30-year career, Universal Music’s Chris Roberts has kept classical recordings relevant by updating their labels with more modern and visually appealing aesthetics.
While the intensity of running a music business is enough to keep Mr. Roberts occupied, he recently began composing and arranging music again. His 2013 release, called “A Different Place, A Different Time” was his first attempt at producing his own album after focusing on the business side of music for 15 years. The classical album includes works derived from his long-time collaborative relationship with musician Jeff Leonard. One of the featured songs was written about Mr. Roberts' daughter Madeleine called “Madeleine’s Lullaby,” with Mr. Leonard contributing the bridge. Rounding out the album is a new composition based on Mozart’s Piano Concerto #23. |
AuthorNavigating an illustrious career through a tumultuous period in the music industry, Christopher Roberts provided visionary leadership for the world’s largest recording company. Archives
May 2017
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