NYC Gazette

New York University and Sony Corporation have announced the launch of the Sony Audio Institute, an initiative aimed at nurturing future creators and innovators at NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The institute will focus on merging technology, music, and business to foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

The initiative is a joint effort by NYU Steinhardt leadership and faculty along with Sony’s Personal Entertainment Business. It will operate for an initial term of 10 years, serving as a hub for students and faculty to collaborate with Sony professionals using cutting-edge technology.

Kimio Maki, President and CEO of Sony Corporation, stated, "It is an honor to establish this collaboration with New York University, one of the world's premier music schools." He emphasized the potential for inspiring creativity among the next generation of music creators.

NYU President Linda G. Mills expressed gratitude for Sony's collaboration: “We are excited and grateful that Sony has chosen NYU Steinhardt to collaborate on this important initiative.” She highlighted the opportunities it would provide for students through scholarships, internships, research fellowships, and other experiences.

Larry S. Miller will serve as Executive Director of the new institute while continuing his role as Director of the Music Business Program at NYU Steinhardt until Fall 2025. He expressed enthusiasm about leading the institute: “I am honored and excited to be leading this innovative new Institute.”

The partnership will also integrate Sony’s state-of-the-art technology into NYU’s learning environment. Students will have access to technologies such as 360 Reality Audio and 360 Virtual Mixing Environment. The Music and Audio Research Lab (MARL) at NYU will work alongside Sony researchers on groundbreaking projects in music and audio technologies.

Sony executives Jun Makino and Jordy Freed also shared their visions for the institute's impact on the industry. Makino said that it aligns with their long-term vision to drive innovation in audio technology. Freed added that it's about investing in empowering future creators by providing access to world-class tools and mentorship.

The collaboration between NYU and Sony aims to enhance student engagement through workshops, internships, special events, and hands-on experiences in spaces like the newly named “Sony Audio Institute Studio” at NYU’s Brooklyn campus.

Jack H. Knott, Dean of NYU Steinhardt, remarked on the opportunity: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Steinhardt’s students, faculty, and researchers to develop deep expertise with Sony’s creative technologies.”

Through these efforts, both organizations hope to shape future leaders in music creation and audio technology while strengthening ties with New York City's entertainment community.