Universal Music Group has named Grammy-winning producer, composer, arranger and Abbey Road producer in residence, Giles Martin, to the newly created global role as Head of Audio Sound, based in Abbey Road Studios. In this position, Martin will lead UMG's exploration and adoption of emerging audio formats and consumer technology, inspiring artist creativity providing the best possible listening experience for fans. With a career characterised by studio experimentation and sound innovation, Martin will look at new audio technologies and potential partnerships with the most compelling innovators in the field. The role will see Martin bring audio fidelity to the heart of the music production process, encouraging artists signed to UMG's record labels to experiment in Abbey Road Studios, which was recently named UK Studio of the Year by the Music Producers Guild. Martins global role for UMG comes after a long association with Abbey Road Studios, where the multi-instrumentalist has worked extensively during his career as a successful music producer, composer, arranger and creative leader.

His studio recordings, stage shows, TV and film works have been critically acclaimed and commercially successful across the globe, and in 2007 he won two Grammy awards for the soundtrack LOVE, an album of remixed Beatles music co-produced with his late father, the record-producing legend Sir George Martin. Universal Music UK chairman and CEO David Joseph, says: 'We've worked very closely with Giles through his work with The Beatles at Abbey Road and he's increasingly become part of the wider Universal Music family. As well as being an innovative and exceptionally versatile producer, he shares our passion for excellence in how music is heard. Giles' unique approach means that as formats and services change there's no-one better to ensure we are best-serving artists, producers and fans in terms of audio delivery'

Since Giles Martin's ground-breaking production work for LOVE, the record-breaking show that opened in Las Vegas in June 2006, he has been at the helm for a diverse range of music entertainment projects demonstrating his passion for sound experimentation. His film work has included the award-winning Ron Howard Beatles documentary feature The Beatles: Eight Days A Week, The Touring Years, Martin Scorsese's George Harrison: Living in the Material World, and the British action franchise Kingsman. This year he has been producing music for the forthcoming Sir Elton John biopic Rocketman. Speaking about his new role, Martin says: 'The landscape of the way people listen to music has changed dramatically. This is an exciting time. New technology should ensure the artist can now connect directly with the listener and its our job as the music industry to make sure that connection is as clear and direct as possible. UMG artists have the best recording facilities in the world. We need to encourage artists to innovate and create great sounding music and to make sure this can be heard by everyone in the best way possible. Its inspiring to be given the opportunity to work with an amazing team at UMG to push the boundaries of audio and sound for both the artist and the music lover.'