Brilliant Classics is a Dutch classical music label based in Leeuwarden, founded by pianist Pieter van Winkel.

The label is known for its comprehensive and affordable releases of classical music recordings, often featuring both well-known and lesser-known works. Brilliant Classics has become a significant player in the classical music market by offering extensive collections and box sets that appeal to both casual listeners and dedicated collectors.

History

1996: Brilliant Classics was established by Pieter van Winkel. The label quickly distinguished itself by focusing on affordability without compromising on quality, making classical music more accessible to a broader audience.

Early Years: In its early years, Brilliant Classics concentrated on reissuing recordings from major labels, often compiling extensive box sets that provided excellent value. This approach garnered the label a strong following among classical music enthusiasts.

2000s: Brilliant Classics expanded its catalog significantly, commissioning new recordings and collaborating with a variety of artists and orchestras. The label became known for its ambitious projects, including complete works of major composers.

Present: Today, Brilliant Classics continues to thrive, offering a vast and diverse catalog that covers a wide range of classical music from the Baroque period to contemporary compositions. The label's commitment to quality and affordability remains a core part of its identity.

Notable Artists and Recordings

J.S. Bach: Brilliant Classics has released several comprehensive sets of Bach's works, including "The Complete Bach Edition," which spans over 160 CDs and includes performances by renowned artists such as Pieter-Jan Belder, Ramin Bahrami, and Tini Mathot.

Ludwig van Beethoven: The label offers extensive collections of Beethoven's works, including complete symphonies, piano sonatas, and string quartets. Notable artists include pianist Jeno Jando and the Kodaly Quartet.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Brilliant Classics has released numerous collections of Mozart's works, including his complete operas, symphonies, and chamber music. The label features performances by artists like pianist Derek Han and conductor Zoltán Kocsis.

Franz Schubert: The label’s comprehensive collections of Schubert's works include his complete piano music, symphonies, and lieder, featuring artists such as pianist Francesco Piemontesi and tenor Ian Bostridge.

Antonio Vivaldi: Brilliant Classics is known for its extensive Vivaldi recordings, including "The Complete Vivaldi Edition," which covers a vast range of his compositions performed by artists like Federico Guglielmo and the L'Arte dell'Arco ensemble.

Dmitri Shostakovich: The label offers complete sets of Shostakovich's symphonies and string quartets, with performances by the Russian State Symphony Orchestra and the Rubio String Quartet.

Modern and Contemporary Composers: Brilliant Classics also features recordings of modern and contemporary composers, such as Philip Glass, Arvo Pärt, and John Cage, showcasing the label's commitment to covering a broad spectrum of classical music.

Unique Projects

Complete Works Box Sets: Brilliant Classics is renowned for its extensive box sets that often include the complete works of major composers. These sets are prized for their comprehensiveness and affordability.

Historical Recordings: The label also reissues historical recordings, bringing classic performances by legendary artists back into circulation.

Early Music: Brilliant Classics has a strong emphasis on early music, with numerous recordings of Renaissance and Baroque music performed on period instruments by specialist ensembles.

Brilliant Classics records

Brilliant Classics has made a significant impact on the classical music landscape by democratizing access to high-quality recordings. Its extensive catalog and focus on affordability have helped to bring classical music to a wider audience, ensuring that both casual listeners and serious collectors can enjoy a rich array of music.

The label's dedication to both breadth and depth in its offerings has solidified its reputation as a go-to source for classical music enthusiasts. Through innovative projects and collaborations with talented artists, Brilliant Classics continues to contribute to the preservation and dissemination of classical music heritage.