CRD Records

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Heralding a new chapter for independent, classical record label and publisher CRD Records, sibling duo Emma and Tom Prauncefort have taken the reins, steering the company through new musical territory.

Founded by their father Graham Pauncefort over 50 years ago, the pair has been busy reviving the well-respected label from its dormant state. Reigniting its pioneering spirit, CRD Records is forging onwards with forward-thinking approaches to the shifting landscape of music production and distribution, while honouring its strong heritage. CRD Records is now re-establishing itself as a musical force to be reckoned with, from digitising its back catalogue using AI technology, to winning transatlantic acquisitions and streaming their content across the health and hospitality sectors, the future for CRD Records is already sounding bright.

How did CRD Records evolve over the programme?

Amping up activity from a period of relative dormancy, Creative UK was onboard to help advise  CRD Records as they navigated the full relaunch of the label. The team were provided with insight, feedback and guidance to help build on CRD’s recognition as a classical music company with a difference. The pair have been driven by a bid to achieve sustainable growth, underpinned by an ethos to work smarter, not harder, while maintaining full ownership of their business.

Growing with Creative UK

“Creative UK are good people with the energy, enthusiasm and pragmatism about building businesses in the creative industries. Huge thanks to the whole team.”

Emma Pauncefort, CRD Records Co-director

2023/24 Highlights

  • Celebrating their 50th year anniversary 
  • New collaborations and partnerships 
  • Successful digitisation of their back catalogue 
  • Winning transatlantic acquisitions 
  • Streaming their content across the health and hospitality sectors.

Where they’re setting their 2024/25 sights…

CRD’s future is set to be a busy and fruitful one. Plans are currently in place to revisit digital and physical distribution channels, as well as refine the process of how they take on new talent — taking artists from project concept to album release. Along with exploring new revenue streams and potential partnerships, they plan to produce a music library catalogue drawing on existing partnerships to help move it forward. A grand plan has also been proposed to host an event in spring 2025 celebrating the label’s newest chapter.