MUMBAI: Sony Music has launched a new consumer based classical music website called Ariama.com.

The music label has launched the beta version of the new online store, touted to be the one-stop shopping solution for classical CDs and digital downloads from more than 50 major and independent labels.

The site will initially sell physical and digital product from Sony, Warner Music Group and EMI Music labels, plus noted independents such as Naxos and Harmonia Mundi and classical imprints handled by digital distributor IODA. The range of product will be available as discs, high-quality MP3s and lossless digital downloads.

The portal offers users the ability to browse and filter music by important elements like composition, period, instrumentation, conductor, ensemble, and soloist apart from the limited track/artist/album filter options.

We are thrilled to announce the beta launch of Ariama.com," said Sony Music Entertainment president, global digital business, US sales, and corporate strategy Thomas Hesse. "We think classical consumers are an important under-served segment of the music buying population, and we have designed Ariama as the answer for fans experiencing an increasingly difficult time finding compelling retail options for classical CDs and downloads  As a company that is home to one of the world's richest classical music libraries, Sony Music understands the unique requirements of the classical music consumer, and we have tailored Ariama to meet them."

In the coming weeks, as Ariama further develops the service, additional content and features will be added  to the site. Major brand partnerships within the classical music world also will be announced. Already Ariama features exclusive editorial features, record recommendations and artist interviews, as well as content from partnerships with leading publications including Gramophone and BBC Music Magazine.