Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

The Musical Instrument Museum is spectacular and truly singular. On my second visit, I was moved once again by the extraordinary collection—room after room (after room(!)) of incredible instruments from around the world. The headphones that they supply are a MUST, and the interface that detects your proximity to the video displays that accompany almost every station is well-thought-out and reasonably effective at knowing which display you are actually in front of. There are so many nice highlights, like the room of playable instances of the different instruments, and the special exhibit. Hearing a live opera singer perform while walking through the halls was moving and unforgettable. A few suggestions that could enhance the experience: Consider starting with the Americas rather than Africa to avoid the fatigue that comes from seeing similar instrument types repeatedly. A preliminary tutorial room explaining instrument taxonomies (lutes, bowed strings, etc.) and canonical instances would help visitors better appreciate the variations. I think in a "taxonomy room", the curators could have an opportunity to explain things better, such as "bowed/stringed lutes" being an implied way to explain that class of instruments. It would be nice to also better organize particular country-exhibits to highlight any instruments that could be attributed as originating from that region, separate from the clearly derivative instruments (as an extreme example, the Philippines exhibit had bamboo replicas of traditional instruments, which clearly did not originate from there). The Brazil display could benefit from including Caipira guitars, and some notable instruments like the Theorbo and microtonal guitars seem to be missing but I believe have representational distinction that is deserving of display in MIM.. Despite these minor observations, this museum is world-class. I could spend days here and would happily return for a third or fourth visit. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates music and craftsmanship

Really cool museum with everything related to musical instruments. Large galleries with displays from all regions and many countries around the world. Automatic listening devices showed short videos of the instruments in use. We could have easily spent twice as long as we did there and still not seen everything. Would be good for all ages and interests. Awesome museum, will definitely go again.

This was a fascinating museum that we didn't know existed until we were in town. It has extensive exhibits that take a long time to view. Plan on spending at least 3 or 4 hours if you're interested in reading about the various exhibits as you go instead of just looking. A wide diversity of instruments from around the world and different modalities. In addition it has a bistro and snack bar that have good food if you'd like to intersperse meal. Recommended.

This is a place like no other then you need to visit the musical instrument museum in Scottsdale arizona. If you want to experience a museum that has the most incredible musical instruments displayed for you to enjoy this is the place. They have instruments from all over the world. Some that you didn't even know existed. Very historical and informational get there early stay there all day and enjoy lunch at the cafe sitting outside in the beautiful weather. Next time I come back to Scottsdale I will revisit this wonderful museum.

Incredible museum with historical beginnings and cultural history of many musical instruments and styles. Most extensive collection we have seen at a music museum. Great special exhibits, beautiful grounds and plenty of parking. Fascinating cultural similarities, a good study in musical evolution and genres. A must visit in the Phoenix area. Offer musical events and special events as well. Plan several hours for discovery or it will be overwhelming should you try to cram it all in over a short visit.