"Crescendo"
Universal Music Group’s Mercury Studios has announced the acquisition of "Crescendo", a documentary directed by Heather Wilk and co-produced by The Cliburn and Red Entertainment. The film follows the professional and personal battle for the coveted prize at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition – where every four years 30 musicians compete for their shot at classical piano stardom.
As players are eliminated, one extraordinary talent rises to the top. The South Korean sensation Yunchan Lim became the youngest-ever winner, whose performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 became the most-watched video of the piece in history, propelling him to international stardom. This meteoric rise was followed by a signing with "Decca Classics", the release of a critically-acclaimed debut album, and performances with major orchestras worldwide.
Mercury Studios has acquired Worldwide media rights to "Crescendo", excluding Korea – with the global release planned for rent or purchase on iTunes, Amazon and Google Play from Friday 2nd May, 2025.
Mercury Studios’ VP of Acquisitions, Amy Freshwater, said, “'Crescendo' opens up classical music for a new generation. By combining a ferocious competition with the heart and soul of the performers, the film invites everyone to explore an esteemed genre and its extraordinary talent.”
Director Heather Wilk said, “We couldn’t ask for a better partner for our film. Mercury Studios’ deep understanding of music makes them the perfect fit, and I’m excited to collaborate and bring this film to audiences.”