CANNES, France (MIDEM/ www.midem.com) - MIDEM 2005, The World's
Music Market (Cannes, France, 23-27 January) will start off with a bang on the evening of Sunday, January 23. The prestigious Opening Night Party welcomes Microsoft as this year's sponsor. Not used to doing things by halves, the software technology company promises to keep MIDEM participants entertained until the early hours.
The party, entitled "Experience More. Microsoft," will feature superstar DJs and take place in the luxurious Martinez Hotel. The entire ground floor will be decorated with projectors and lighting effects which have been especially designed to create an unforgettable atmosphere, and numerous open bars, lavish buffets, lounge areas and VIP clubs will all contribute to making this an Opening Night to remember.
The evening's music will be provided exclusively by DJs, including the one and only Louie Vega, half of legendary house duo Masters at Work. The group has left an indelible mark on global house culture thanks to club roof-raisers such as "It's Alright, I Feel It", "The Nervous Track" or "You Can Do It." Having remixed Saint Etienne, Donna Summer, Madonna, Dee-Lite, Soul II Soul or
Everything But The Girl, Vega's latest project is his first solo album, "Elements of Life." The evening's other superstar DJ will be the UK's
Andy Hunter whose track "Go" is one of EMI's most licensed tunes, and has featured in films such as "National Treasure," "The Matrix-Reloaded" and "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider 2."
As the host Microsoft wants to underscore the bright and bold future of the music industry and will offer an ideal opportunity for participants to learn more about the wide choice of innovative new products and services that it delivers. Microsoft has been consistently present at MIDEM over recent years and MIDEM is thrilled by its presence for 2005 by sponsoring the Opening Night Party and housing a stand in the exhibition area.
Chad Hodge, Media & Entertainment Marketing at Microsoft Corp, says, "Microsoft is delighted to be sponsoring the Opening Night Party at MIDEM 2005. We are focused on delivering great digital entertainment experiences enabling people to choose how and where they enjoy their digital media.
With the growth in the market for high quality audio and video content, Microsoft recently launched the PlaysForSure program designed to help consumers choose devices and online music/video stores that work together, including MSN
Music - taking the guesswork out of compatibility. At MIDEM 2005, we will be showcasing these solutions and innovations in our stand."
