The maestros of the world generally conduct the music of others, but a Japanese record label has scored a minor hit with a CD of piano pieces that conductors themselves composed.

Selling steadily since its release in November 2002, "Piano Works by Great Conductors" has shifted about 5,000 copies.

"This figure is exceptionally high in the world of classical music," says Yukihisa Miyayama, producer with King International Inc. "Usually, sales of a classical music CD come to a halt several months after the release, but this CD continues to find customers."