Apple Launches Classical Top 100 Chart

The new chart lists the top classical recordings across Apple's music offerings, including Apple Music Classical, Apple Music, and iTunes

In early 2023, Apple launched a specialist classical music streaming service in the form of Apple Music Classical. The company has recently released the Apple Classical Top 100, which uses data from the service's users to determine which classical albums are most popular across the world.

According to the company, Apple Classical Top 100 will incorporate five data points: the number of Apple Music Classical streams, Apple Music streams, iTunes downloads, iTunes song sales, and Shazam tags. Apple says this breadth of information will make its chart "the most comprehensive and representative chart available."

The chart will be updated every Monday, and can be viewed here.

The first album to top the chart is pianist Tianqi Du's disc Bach: Keyboard Concertos, which was recorded with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields and conductor Jonathan Bloxham.

"Apple Music Classical has been a huge hit with classical fans around the world," said Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Apple Music and Beats. "With the launch of Apple Classical Top 100 and the recently announced new partnerships, the app is transforming the world of classical."

"I’m deeply honored for my latest album to be top of the first Apple Classical 100 chart," said Tianqi Du. "These concertos are a vibrant showcase of Bach’s energy and spirit, bursting with emotional richness and expressive depth. I am sincerely grateful for the fantastic platform Apple Music Classical provides, helping us musicians connect with classical music lovers globally."