Global agreement sees acclaimed independent classical label become part of the [PIAS] Label Group while retaining its distinctive identity and artist-first approach

London, June 23^rd 2026 – [PIAS], one of world’s leading music companies, has acquired Signum Records, one of the world’s most respected independent classical music labels, in a global agreement that further expands its presence in the classical music sector and strengthens its portfolio of specialist music businesses.

Founded in 1997 by Steve Long and Alistair Dixon, Signum Records will celebrate its 30^th anniversary next year having built an international reputation for artistic excellence, championing a diverse roster of world-class performers, conductors, orchestras and composers. The company, which is best known for its outstanding early music, choral and orchestral recordings as well as nurturing young and emerging artists, has received an impressive array of awards including Grammys, Gramophone Awards and BBC Music Magazine Awards, and it was Gramophone’s Label of the Year in 2017. It has built a catalogue approaching 1,000 recordings and will soon surpass 1 billion streams globally while continuing to release more than 40 new titles annually. Its roster has featured acclaimed artists and ensembles including The King’s Singers, Tenebrae, Alessio Bax, Julian Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra, James Rhodes, Gabrieli and Paul McCreesh amongst many others, helping establish Signum as one of the most influential independent labels in classical music.

Under the terms of this agreement, Signum Records will become part of the [PIAS] Label Group while continuing to operate under its established brand and creative leadership. It provides Signum with access to [PIAS]’ extensive global infrastructure, international marketing expertise, distribution capabilities and operational resources, while preserving the independence, entrepreneurial spirit and artistic vision that have defined the label since its inception. The company’s Co-Founder Steve Long will remain as managing director.

This acquisition builds on [PIAS]’ long-standing commitment to classical music. Since the addition of Harmonia Mundi to the group in 2015, [PIAS] has established a significant presence within the classical sector, working with many of the world’s most respected artists, ensembles and catalogues. Today, Harmonia Mundi remains at the heart of [PIAS]’ classical activities, making Signum a natural addition to a portfolio that already includes some of the most highly regarded names in specialist and independent music.

It also further strengthens [PIAS]’ presence in the classical music sector and reflects the company’s continued commitment to investing in specialist music businesses with strong creative identities and internationally recognised catalogues. By combining Signum’s reputation for artistic excellence with [PIAS]’ global infrastructure and market expertise, the partnership creates new opportunities for artists, repertoire development and audience growth worldwide.

Edwin Schroter, CEO of [PIAS] said,

“Having met and spent time with Steve over the last few years as a label partner of Integral, it was clear that his passion and forward-thinking approach to classical music together with his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in all areas of the industry, would be a great fit for [PIAS]. Signum has grown into one of the most respected independent classical labels in the world by working with some of the finest artists, ensembles and composers. Like other genres, classical music is more accessible today than ever before and continues to reach and connect with growing audiences around the world. And as with other genres, we believe that outstanding artists and recordings, supported by a talented team bringing them to market, will continue to create new opportunities and help build an enduring, valuable catalog.”

Steve Long said

“I am delighted that Signum is becoming part of the [PIAS] Label Group. Throughout our discussions, it became clear that [PIAS] understands what makes independent labels special and why preserving that independence matters. Having access to the infrastructure, expertise and global reach of an international music company while still being able to operate as an independent label is genuinely the best of both worlds. This partnership creates exciting new opportunities for our artists, our catalogue and our future ambitions, while allowing us to continue doing what Signum has always done best, which is supporting exceptional music and the people who create it.”

The acquisition, which does not include Signum’s sister company Floating Earth, brings together two independently minded music businesses with a shared commitment to long-term artist development, catalogue stewardship and sustainable growth. It positions Signum to accelerate its international ambitions while benefiting from [PIAS]’ global reach and expertise and further reinforces [PIAS]’ commitment to building a meaningful and enduring presence within the classical music market.

-ENDS-