Virgin Classics
Virgin Classics was a record label founded in 1988 as part of Richard Branson's Virgin Records.[1]
Virgin Classics
- Thorn EMI (1992–1996)
- EMI (1996–2012)
- Parlophone Label Group
(independent operation; 2012–2013) - Warner Music Group
(back catalogue; 2013–present)
1988
2013
Defunct; absorbed into Erato Records
The unit, along with EMI Classics, was acquired by Universal Music Group in 2012 as part of the takeover of the EMI Music Group, however the terms of the European Commission's September 2012 approval of the takeover requires divestment of the classical labels[2] which were sold on 7 February 2013 to Warner Music Group.[3] The European Union approved the deal in May 2013.[4] Warner Music's Warner Classics unit absorbed the Virgin Classics artists roster and catalogue into Erato Records[5] but lost the rights to use either the EMI or Virgin names.