In a major move to modernize the perception of classical music, the Official Charts Company has launched the Official Classical Chart. This brand-new weekly ranking is the first significant classical chart launch in over a decade, designed specifically to pivot away from "museum piece" catalogues and toward the freshest talent in the genre.
A Focus on Modern Discovery
Unlike traditional rankings, this new chart is dedicated exclusively to classical albums released within the last 12 months. By ranking these projects through a combination of UK sales and streams, the chart aims to connect new audiences with the contemporary faces of the genre.
The launch follows a blockbuster year for classical music. In 2025, over 1.34 million classical albums were purchased or streamed in the UK. While streaming accounts for two-thirds of consumption, the vinyl market is surging; classical vinyl sales grew by 25% last year—nearly double the growth rate of the general vinyl market.
Spotlight on New Talent
The data from 2025 highlights a vibrant UK scene. Major milestones included:
Anna Lapwood: The Royal Albert Hall organist secured the biggest British solo release with Firedove.
Brad Kella: The virtuoso pianist and winner of Channel 4’s The Piano earned the top homegrown debut.
Ludovico Einaudi: The Summer Portraits was the year's biggest classical release overall.
Industry and Media Support
The initiative is a collaborative effort with the UK classical industry and BBC Radio 3. Every Friday at 5:45 PM, the chart will publish on OfficialCharts.com, with weekly on-air highlights featured on BBC Radio 3’s Essential Classics.
"The classical genre is a thriving sector of contemporary innovation," says Martin Talbot, Chief Executive of the Official Charts Company. Sam Jackson, Controller of BBC Radio 3, adds that the chart gives listeners a new way to engage with the "exciting musical voices shaping the classical world."
Sales and streams officially begin counting today, February 6, 2026, with the first-ever definitive ranking set to publish on Friday, February 13.
