DUBAI, November 13, 2006:

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman Dubai World, has stressed on the significance of shopping malls in boosting tourism in Dubai and supporting the Emirate's economic growth and its position as a shopping haven, through offering comprehensive shopping, cultural and entertainment services to residents and visitors alike.

Mr. Bin Sulayem made these remarks last night (Sunday November 12) after inaugurating the Thomsun Pure Music Sing and Swing Training Centre at Ibn Battuta Mall.

The grand opening of the institute was a night of sheer musical delight for connoisseurs, with opera singers and flamenco dance artistes performing to the beats of a live band. It was attended by a number of dignitaries including Mrs. Salma Hareb, the CEO of Jafza and Economic Zones World , along with other Dubai World officials.

Mr. bin Sulayem said, "The opening of the Thomsun institute represents a value addition to Ibn Battuta Mall, which always strives to offer visitors sophisticated services and original ideas.   The construction boom witnessed in Dubai and the emergence of new residential areas that resemble small towns has contributed to the establishment of more shopping complexes that offer service and entertainment to families, tourists and other visitors, all under one roof."

Tyler Smith, Executive Director, Thomson Pure Music School, said, "This school would be a truly socializing experience, with people of all nationalities coming together for a shared passion of music. The location of the school at Ibn Battuta Mall satisfies the increasing demand for a well rounded music and dance training centre located near the Lakes, Marina, Palms, Greens and Jebel Ali among others."

Mr Smith added, "We are really excited to be able to offer certified courses from the Trinity School of Music in London and are fortunate to have highly experienced musicians who can pass on their skills to our students. Music is a universal language and it doesn't discriminate between nationality, race or religion."

In addition to offering instructions on an eclectic blend of musical instruments from the piano, guitar, drums and bass guitar, to the violin, viola, and saxophone, the Thomsun institute will also provide training in dances such as ballroom, tap, flamenco and salsa.

The Thomsun Pure Music Sing and Swing Training Centre offers instruction at the beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.  It boasts a multicultural environment, with teachers from Romania, Italy, the US, India and Russia.

The school also features an in-house musical accessories store to showcase major brands in the music industry such as Yamaha and Rickenbacker.

Mr Smith said, "Our goal is to teach music and build musicians step-by-step through knowledge, motivation, creativity and performance. Ultimately those who play music are judged by how well they perform, and only through discipline and a burning desire will the performance goal of 'playing great' be achieved."

The new Thomsun Pure Music Sing and Swing Training Centre will have 12 classrooms and a dance studio that can accommodate nearly 350 students.

Thomson Pure Music, established by Mr. K.V. Thomas, Mr. V.T. John and Mr. P. Shrinivas, established their first music school, the Popular Musical Institute, at Wafi Mall nearly 6 years ago. 

-Ends-

About IBN BATTUTA MALL
"Six Destinations, One Mall"
A shopping destination unlike any other,  Ibn Battuta Mall bears the name of a renowned 14th Century Arab xplorer and is themed around his travels.  The architecture within the Mall's six courts reflects the most influential places Ibn Battuta travelled during his time:  Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China.  It also represents the main geographical themes of the six regions, complete with working models of some of the most amazing scientific inventions of the great traveller's days.  A massive food court, retail zoning and a 21-screen Megaplex - featuring the UAE's first IMAX theatre - complement a cultural experience that no shopping mall has ever offered.

For Further Information please contact:
Prerna Suri
Media Executive
World View Communications
Tel: 04-8818808
Fax: 04-8817722
Mobile: 050-6941384

© Press Release 2006