Thema expands its distribution operations in Japan with Rakuten launch

Canal+ Group company, Thema has expanded its distribution activity in Japan with the launch of Vivaldi FAST TV-channel via R Channel, a linear streaming service operated by Rakuten Group, Inc. The classical music channel is now available to users across the R Channel platform. “We could see big potential in Japan, being one the largest hubs for classical music. Rakuten is the ideal platform to make Vivaldi available to a new audience and allow the greatest symphonies within everyone’s reach,”  Thema Managing Director APAC , Alexandre Bac, said.

 After several new deals realized by Thema Asia-Pacific recently in Thailand, India, Hong Kong and South Korea, the company’s expansion into the Asian market reached a new scale with its first deal in Japan thanks to Vivaldi’s launch. "Connecting more people to classical music is our daily challenge. We are so pleased to see VIVALDI now available in Japan," said Wilfried Texier, Marketing Director of Vivaldi channel. "This new opportunity with Rakuten marks a big step forward in our Asian presence, a continent which is full of amazing musicians and a fast-growing community of classical music lovers."

Vivaldi is targeted at both classical music experts, and beginners hoping to learn more about the genre. "FAST channel gained its popularity among viewers because of its focus on easier listening, lifestyle and ambient experience," the company states. "Thanks to this, Vivaldi’s playlists with great popular works of classical music – the greatest operas, symphonies and concertos – are accessible to as many people as possible."