The Musical Museum is an extraordinary place for anyone who loves music and is interested in the history of musical instruments. Located in London, it is one of the world’s largest collections of mechanical musical instruments, with over 1,000 exhibits that range from tiny music boxes to giant orchestral organs. The museum was founded by Frank Holland in 1963, who started collecting musical instruments as a hobby. Today, the museum is a registered charity and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art and science of music.
The Musical Museum has something for everyone. Visitors can see and hear a wide variety of instruments from different periods and countries. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Mighty Wurlitzer, a giant pipe organ that was originally used in cinemas to accompany silent movies; the Polyphon, a disc-playing music box that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries; and the reproducing piano, which can play back recordings of famous pianists from the early 20th century. The museum also has a collection of player pianos, band organs, gramophones, and phonographs.
One of the highlights of the museum is the regular live performances on the Mighty Wurlitzer organ. The organ, which has over 1,500 pipes, is played by expert organists who demonstrate its full range of sounds and capabilities. These performances are not to be missed, and visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s schedule for upcoming events.
Another unique feature of the Musical Museum is the Restoration Workshop. Here, visitors can see and learn about the process of restoring and repairing mechanical musical instruments. The museum’s team of skilled technicians and craftsmen work to restore instruments to their original condition, using traditional techniques and materials. Visitors can watch as instruments are taken apart, cleaned, repaired, and reassembled.
In addition to its exhibits and performances, the Musical Museum is also home to an extensive research library and archive. The library contains books, journals, and other materials related to the history and technology of music, while the archive houses a collection of documents, photographs, and recordings related to the museum’s exhibits and history. Researchers and scholars are welcome to visit the library and archive by appointment.
The Musical Museum is a fascinating place for music lovers of all ages. It offers a unique glimpse into the history of mechanical musical instruments and the people who made and played them. Whether you are a serious musician, a collector of antiques, or simply someone who enjoys listening to music, the Musical Museum is well worth a visit.
