Sony Wonder Technology Lab Unveils New Interactive Music Experience Featuring Grammy® Award-Winning Artist Alicia Keys

NEW YORK, June 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sony Wonder Technology Lab, a four-story interactive technology and entertainment experience in midtown Manhattan, today unveiled Music Mixer, its latest interactive exhibit featuring 14-time Grammy® Award-winning recording artist Alicia Keys.  

This highly interactive experience allows visitors to put their own spin on the Alicia Keys hit, "Empire State of Mind (Part II)," using a variety of instrument tracks in genres ranging from Hip-Hop to World.  By manipulating a set of three-dimensional "audio blocks" on an interactive table, visitors work together to create a whole new mix, while learning about the characteristics of different instruments, effects and musical styles. 

"Our mission has always been to inspire kids to learn about technology and entertainment in a hands-on setting, and there is no better example of that than the music experience we are opening today," said Karen Kelso, Executive Director of the Sony Wonder Technology Lab.

"In creating this new experience, we wanted to give kids an opportunity to explore music in a fun and engaging way.  To be able to introduce kids to the many different ways a song can be interpreted and inspire them to embrace cultural diversity in music is truly a gift, and we are so grateful to the immensely talented Alicia Keys for her participation and enthusiasm."

Music Mixer was developed by the Sony Wonder Technology Lab in partnership with Big Show Construction Management (construction management), James Hollingsworth Design (exhibit design), Three Byte Intermedia, Inc. (media hardware and systems integration) and Unified Field (interactive programming design and development). Available Light and SH Acoustics provided lighting and acoustic/audio design consultation, respectively.

The Sony Wonder Technology Lab is a free, four-story, interactive technology and entertainment experience for all ages. Located in mid-town Manhattan, SWTL inspires creativity in a high-quality, engaging, and family-friendly learning environment. By inviting visitors to experience the latest technologies in a hands-on setting, SWTL nurtures curiosity while awakening visitors to their own talent and potential. Through its permanent exhibits and innovative programs, including Sci-Tech workshops, ongoing screenings and associations with well-respected local non-profit and educational institutions, SWTL aims to educate and cultivate the next generation of leaders in media, science, technology and the arts. For more information, visit www.sonywondertechlab.com.

SOURCE Sony Corporation of America