Musical Instruments Museum
Step inside the Old England building to discover a treasure trove of sonic history. This museum houses thousands of instruments from every corner of the globe. Visitors enjoy a unique audio experience where headphones automatically play the sounds of the instruments they are standing near. The stunning Art Nouveau architecture adds to the charm of the experience. After exploring the galleries, head to the rooftop terrace for one of the finest panoramic views of the city. It provides a harmonious blend of visual beauty and auditory discovery.
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History of Musical Instruments Museum
The Musical Instruments Museum stands as a testament to the rich heritage of sound and invention. Its roots trace back to the 19th century when the Belgian government acquired the massive collection of the musicologist François Joseph Fétis. What began as an academic repository soon grew into a vibrant showcase for the world's diverse musical traditions. The transition to the Old England building marked a pivotal moment in the history of the institution. This structure, a gleaming example of Art Nouveau elegance, was once a thriving department store for Brussels high society. The transformation from a space of commerce to a space of culture preserved the intricate ironwork and glass facades, ensuring that the architecture remains as celebrated as the treasures inside. Today, the museum bridges the gap between historical preservation and modern technology. By allowing every visitor to hear the specific timbre of the instruments on display, it removes the silence typically associated with museum exhibits. It ensures that the legacy of masters like Adolphe Sax continues to resonate, keeping the spirit of invention and creativity alive for every guest who walks through its doors.
events spanning 123 years
Fun Facts
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It occupies the Old England building, which is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design created by the architect Paul Saintenoy.
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The Old England building originally served as a luxury department store in the late 19th century.
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The collection features rare instruments built by Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, who conducted much of his work in Brussels.
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The collection foundation grew from personal instruments donated from the library of the Belgian King Leopold II.
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The exhibits contain early mechanical musical devices that showcase the ingenuity of pre digital engineering.
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The holdings include diverse instruments ranging from ancient Chinese zithers to traditional African drums.
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The museum is home to over 8000 instruments from various time periods and cultures.
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The rooftop restaurant offers a famous view where you can spot the Atomium on a clear day.
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Visitors receive wireless headphones that trigger audio clips as they approach specific exhibits, allowing you to hear the instruments on display.
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You can view unusual inventions including early glass harmonicas that produce hauntingly beautiful tones.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 2010, making it 16 years old
WEB & AMENITIES
Musical Instruments Museum Map & Neighborhood Explorer
This interactive map is centered on Musical Instruments Museum. Zoom in and move the map around to automatically discover Wikipedia photos and summaries of other nearby sights, monuments, and historical points of interest and stories in real-time!
Musical Instruments Museum FAQ
Yes, the wireless headphones are provided upon entry and are included in the price of admission, allowing you to listen to the sounds of the instruments.
Absolutely, the interactive nature of the audio experience makes it captivating for visitors of all ages.
The rooftop restaurant is accessible through the museum, so it is best to plan your visit as part of your museum exploration.
A typical visit takes about 3 hours. We recommend planning your schedule accordingly to make the most of your time there.
The closest place to visit near Musical Instruments Museum is Phoenix Film Festival, around 4.3 km away. Other things to do near Musical Instruments Museum include Phoenix Mountains Preserve (13.2 km), Piestewa Peak (13.9 km) and Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve (15.2 km). All of these are within roughly 15.2 km of Musical Instruments Museum.
It dates back to 2010, making it 16 years old.
While we strive to keep this information accurate and up to date, we recommend verifying any details independently before making decisions based on them.
Places near Musical Instruments Museum
Make the most of your trip. Check out these top-rated spots located nearby.
4346mPhoenix Film Festival
The Phoenix Film Festival champions independent cinema by showcasing amazing feature films and shorts. It offers a fantastic platform for emerging directors to share their vision. Visitors enjoy a remarkably welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the magic of moviemaking. The event attracts thousands of cinephiles eager to discover new talent. It has grown into one of the most respected regional film festivals in the country.
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13228mPhoenix Mountains Preserve
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve serves as a stunning, rugged escape right in the heart of the Valley of the Sun, offering an incredible contrast to the city's urban sprawl. Rising dramatically above the desert floor, these peaks provide a sanctuary for both wildlife and active residents seeking a challenging hike or a quiet sunset view. Visitors can explore a sprawling network of trails that wind through ancient rock formations and pristine Sonoran Desert landscapes, making it a must-visit experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are scaling Piestewa Peak or wandering the quieter paths of the North Mountain area, the views of the metropolitan area are unparalleled. It is the green lung of Phoenix, ensuring that even in a rapidly growing metropolis, nature remains within arm's reach.
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13894mPiestewa Peak
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park & nature view
15228mDeer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
This tranquil nature reserve protects the highest concentration of ancient Native American rock art in the entire metropolitan area. Visitors can walk a quiet, accessible trail that winds through the rugged desert hills. The dark basalt rocks are beautifully etched with hundreds of incredibly well preserved ancient symbols and animal figures. The accompanying museum provides profound context regarding the cultural significance of the site. It offers a highly peaceful and deeply respectful encounter with ancient history.
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