Rowman & Littlefield has bought several trade book imprints and selected trade titles from Hal Leonard Performing Arts Publishing Group, which will continue to publish sheet music and music instructional materials as well as distribute musical instruments and related products. In addition, some trade book publishers whose titles are currently distributed by Hal Leonard will now be serviced by National Book Network.
The acquired imprints include Hal Leonard Books, which will be rolled into Rowman & Littlefield, Applause Theatre & Cinema Books, Amadeus Press, Backbeat Books and Limelight Editions.
Applause Theatre & Cinema Books publishes theater and cinema books, including biographies of film and theater luminaries, as well as playscripts, librettos, monologue books, and film and theater history. From 1980 to 2005, it operated a bookstore in New York City.
Amadeus Press publishes books on classical music and opera, including such series as Unlocking the Masters.
Backbeat Books publishes biographies and memoirs, histories, and volumes on musical instruments, covering rock 'n' roll, jazz and more.
Limelight Editions offers resources for working and aspiring actors, producers, writers, directors, filmmakers, set designers and others, as well as guides to careers in film and theater.
Applause Theatre & Cinema Books, Backbeat Books, Limelight Editions and the distributed publishers will be represented by National Book Network, while the acquired titles from Amadeus Press and selected other Hal Leonard titles will be sold by Rowman & Littlefield, under each company's discount schedules. Until February 1, when these changes become effective, customers should continue to order from Hal Leonard.
John Cerullo, Hal Leonard Group publisher, is joining Rowman & Littlefield, reporting to Oliver Gadsby, president of the academic and professional division. Carol Flannery, editorial director, and Clare Cerullo, production manager, are also joining Rowman & Littlefield.
Jed Lyons, president and CEO of Rowman & Littlefield, commented: "We are delighted to bring the Hal Leonard team and business on board, and are looking forward to working with John and his colleagues. The Hal Leonard list will benefit from extra attention and focus from our own trade and academic teams, and we look forward to publishing the rich array of titles for the world of performing arts coming across with this acquisition."