WARNER TO RECORD NEW UK RELEASES.

Warner Classics UK is to start producing its own recordings for the domestic market.

The material, which will appear under the Warner Music UK umbrella but will be marketed by Warner Classics UK, will initially be limited to two or three titles a year, according to general manager Matthew Cosgrove (pictured). However, the volume of releases could be increased depending on the market penetration and sales returns generated by the early albums.

The launch album, Aurora, rolls out on April 2 and features works by Sarah Cass performed by the Cantamus girls choir. Thirty-two-yea r-old Cass, who is managed by Sir George Martin, recently collaborated with Mark Knopfler on the soundtrack for Sir David Attenborough's State of the Planet TV series.

"It's substantial yet accessible music," says Cosgrove, "performed by an absolutely extraordinary youth choir. Sarah writes memorable tunes and substantial music."

The decision to allocate a dedicated budget to the series and launch a classical label under the UK company's direct control follows the international sales success of its bargain-price Ultima back catalogue line, which has grown to 140 ...