Nestle Japan strikes a musical note
In this article (5)
Nestle Japan has extended its offering from coffee to music as part of a promotional event for its Nescafe Gold Blend Barista instant coffee.
It has launched a wooden musical instrument, the “Pythagorean”, which plays Christmas melodies. It is the only Rube Goldberg machine in the world to be installed in a coffee shop.
Designed like a coffee mug and about 3.5m high and 3m wide, the Pythagorean involves a wooden ball being released into a staircase-shaped maze. Christmas carols play as the ball rolls downward, striking tuned xylophone steps. The contraption comprises 180 xylophone keys and 1450 individual parts. It took about five months to build, using laser machining and other cutting-edge technologies.
By using an app, customers at the Nescafe Harajuku outlet can choose an emoticon that befits their mood. A bird character then appears on the screen, and while their coffee is being made, the ball is released to play one of three Christmas tunes.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary purpose of the Pythagorean musical instrument in the coffee shop?
What is the primary purpose of the Pythagorean musical instrument in the coffee shop?
It is part of a promotional event for Nescafe Gold Blend Barista instant coffee, playing Christmas melodies while customers wait for their coffee.
Q.How do customers interact with the musical instrument?
How do customers interact with the musical instrument?
Customers use an app to select an emoticon reflecting their mood. A bird character then appears, and a ball is released to play a Christmas tune.
Q.What are the physical dimensions and components of the Pythagorean?
What are the physical dimensions and components of the Pythagorean?
It is approximately 3.5m high and 3m wide, designed like a coffee mug. It contains 180 xylophone keys and 1450 individual parts.
Q.How long did it take to construct the musical machine?
How long did it take to construct the musical machine?
The Pythagorean took about five months to build, utilising laser machining and other cutting-edge technologies during its construction.
Reader pulse
Is this a smart marketing play for Nestle Japan?
22,858 votes so far