Chopin pianist takes digital route.

Classical pianists are in the ascendant in 2008, with aggressive marketing campaigns planned for albums from Lang Lang on Deutsche Grammophon, Classical Star winner Sophie Cashell on UCJ and Ingrid Fliter on EMI Classics.

Argentine pianist Fliter's debut recital disc, an all-Chopin affair set for issue in April, received an exclusive digital-only release on January 21. The digital EP will be followed by a second online selection in April.

"I think the internet has become a wonderful way of communicating and making classical music alive for people at home," observes Fliter, described by the Daily Telegraph as one of today's most instinctive and eloquent Chopin interpreters.

"It's a great idea of EMI to make this first step in attracting people to listen to the album. I hope it has that effect! Chopin is a composer who easily arrives in people's hearts and connects with young people. He can speak to very large audiences of different tastes and cultures. I'm fascinated to know how this download project goes."

Fliter's interest is shared widely around the classical record industry, especially as the 33-year-old's marketability has been helped by critical acclaim in the UK press and a ...