Sometimes your release may not remain in the 'Classical' genre after inspection. This happens when your music doesn’t meet the industry standards that digital partners use to classify Classical content. For example, if you record a modern pop song in a classical style, it won’t qualify for the Classical genre on most platforms.

If your music is new, original, or a cover of a modern song performed in a classical style, your genre may be updated to something more accurate so your release displays correctly everywhere.

How genre decisions are made

• Digital partners have strict criteria for what qualifies as Classical.
• “Classical” typically refers to works within the Western classical tradition and repertoire.
• Music that sounds classical—but comes from a modern source or pop repertoire—must be categorized differently.
• Updating your genre helps ensure:
  • Accurate placement in partner stores,
  • Fewer metadata issues,
  • Better discovery by the right listeners.

Common reasons your genre might change

• Your track is a modern composition written in a classical style.
• Your release is a cover of a contemporary song, even if performed with classical instruments.
• Your music is inspired by classical aesthetics but not part of the Classical repertoire.
• Your release doesn’t meet Classical metadata requirements used by partner stores.

Things to note

• A genre update doesn't affect the rest of your release or its eligibility for distribution.
• Selecting a more accurate genre (like Instrumental, Soundtrack, or New Age, depending on the music) helps match your release with listener expectations.