FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

... about the GENUIN Label

What does GENUIN offer as a classical music label?

GENUIN is an independent classical music label with over 20 years of experience. We accompany our musicians from recording to artistic and editorial support to physical and digital release. We support them with press releases, artist profiles, social media campaigns, and targeted PR activities.

Why is a label still important in the digital age?

A label creates trust—with the press, broadcasters, specialist retailers, and listeners. It ensures visibility in a crowded market, professionally prepares the product, and places it specifically on relevant platforms. GENUIN stands for quality and credibility in the classical music world. And that counts, even in the digital space.

What role does GENUIN play in placing music on streaming platforms?

We take care of the professional distribution of your music on on more than 30 platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Qobuz, IDAGIO, Deezer, and many more. We ensure high-quality audio files and well-thought-out release strategies, and promote the albums and singles through numerous channels specifically tailored to the classical music market.

What are GENUIN's requirements in terms of repertoire and quality?

GENUIN is a high-quality, broad-based classical music label. Its repertoire covers the entire spectrum from the Renaissance to the modern era, from solo instruments and chamber music to large orchestral works. As a tonmeister label, we pay particular attention to the artistic and sound quality of the recordings.

Does GENUIN only produce CDs or also release digital albums?

Both, depending on the musicians' wishes. GENUIN continues to produce CDs—with first-class design, an editorial booklet, edited texts, and professional layout. At the same time, GENUIN has specialized in the digital distribution of classical music for over 15 years.

Does the CD still play a role in classical music?

Yes, CDs continue to be highly valued in the classical music sector, for example in reviews, applications for prizes and grants, and concert sales. Many listeners appreciate the high-quality booklet with background information, the reliable sound quality, and the opportunity to experience an album as an artistic entity.

Do I have to be recorded by GENUIN in order to release my album?

No, we also release albums recorded by other recording engineers—provided that the repertoire and quality meet our standards. However, GENUIN sees itself as a tonmeister label, which is why our own recordings naturally receive a little more attention in our releases.

How long does it take from recording to release?

Depending on the project, usually between 9 and 12 months. This time is needed for editing, corrections and mastering, texts and translations, booklet creation, PR preparation, and registration with distributors and platforms. Good planning is essential—we are happy to support you in this.

Do the musicians receive a share of the distribution revenues?

Yes, at GENUIN, musicians receive an annual statement with a precise and transparent breakdown of all revenues and royalties, divided into physical sales and download and streaming clicks on digital platforms. Accordingly, there are also annual license payments.

What about the rights to the recordings?

Unlike many other labels, GENUIN retains exclusive rights to the published recordings for a period of five years only. After that, the rights revert to the musicians on a non-exclusive basis. GENUIN also retains the non-exclusive right to continue distributing the recordings.

What is the difference between GENUIN as a label and GENUIN as a classical recording studio?

As a classical recording studio, we take care of the planning and execution of a recording, including the organization of the recording venue, support from a certified classical tonmeister, editing, mixing, and mastering. As a label, we release selected recordings and offer artistic consulting, design, physical and digital distribution, marketing, PR, etc.