Journey into the world of sound: the museum of musical Instruments in Brussels

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is a unique place were history and modernity merge in harmony. It houses more than 8,000 instruments from all over the world, allowing every visitor to discover the diversity of sound cultures. The museum building, located in the historic center of the city, is a work of art in itself. Regardless of age and interests, everyone will find something for themselves here, be it interactive exhibits or rare musical relics.

History of the creation of the museum

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels was founded in 1877 thanks to the initiative of Victor Chevere, the founder of the Royal Conservatory. It was initially created as a place to store a unique collection of musical instruments acquired from private collectors and various institutions. The museum became not only a repository of history, but also an educational platform for studying the evolution of music.

Key dates in the history of the museum:

• Victor Chevere founded a museum of musical instruments as part of the Royal Conservatory. The first exhibits were rare instruments purchased from Raoul Reinhard.
• Expansion of the collection through gifts and purchases from private collectors.
• The museum receives unique exhibits from closed monasteries and private archives.
• The museum was moved to the Old England building, an Art Nouveau architectural monument.
• Beginning of cataloguing of the collection; introduction of a system of inventory control.
• 1981 The museum becomes a federal institution, receiving additional funding.
• Carrying out reconstruction; creation of interactive exhibitions.
• The museum is included in the list of the best cultural attractions in Brussels.
• Plans for further development and digitalization of the collection by the 150th anniversary.

Today, the Museum of Musical Instruments is a unique place where more than 8,000 exhibits representing the musical culture of different eras and nations are stored. Modern technologies allow visitors not only to see, but also to hear the sound of instruments. This makes visiting the museum exciting and educational for guests of all ages.

Interesting fact:

Some of the museum exhibits can not only be seen, but also played!

Features of the building’s architecture

The building of the Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is a unique architectural masterpiece that combines history and modernity. Built in 1899, it was originally used as a department store and was designed by the architect Paul Senger. The building was subsequently rebuilt, preserving the Art Nouveau elements that today attract architecture lovers from all over the world.

Features of the building’s architecture:

• Art Nouveau elements: exquisite forged details and façade.
• Panoramic view: glass roof with city views.
• Original elevators in the style of the late 19th century.
• A historical combination of metal, glass and stone.
• The unique acoustics of the halls were preserved during restoration.

Today, the museum building continues to attract both architecture and music enthusiasts. Work has been carried out to preserve the historical elements and modern exhibition spaces have been added. The museum has become a symbol of the synthesis of the architectural heritage and the cultural mission of Brussels.

Advice:

Don’t miss the panoramic rooftop terrace of the museum – the views of Brussels from there are simply breathtaking!

Museum exhibits and collections

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels has a unique collection of over 8,000 items from all over the world. It was formed through donations, purchases and archival research. It presents the rarest instruments from different eras, demonstrating the rich musical history of mankind.

List of collections and valuable exhibits:

• Keyboard instruments: antique pianos, Renaissance harpsichords.
• Strings: rare violins, 17th century guitars, folk harps.
• Wind instruments: unique flutes, saxophones by Adolphe Sax.
• Ethnic instruments: African drums, Asian zithers, Latin American maracas.
• Electronic: early synthesizers and electric guitars.
• Particularly valuable exhibits: a prototype of a saxophone made by Adolphe Sax himself; a rare 18th-century clavichord.

Tourists should especially pay attention to the unique hall where you can hear the sounds of some instruments. The exhibits tell not only about musical culture, but also about its influence on society. A visit to the museum will be an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves music.

Advice:

The museum offers audio guides with recordings of sounds from the rarest instruments in the collection.

Events and educational programs

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels regularly organizes educational programs and cultural events that attract visitors of all ages. From lectures and master classes to concerts, there is something for everyone. These events allow you to better understand the history of music and the uniqueness of instruments from different eras.

What you can visit:

• Concerts: held monthly, featuring both contemporary and classical artists. Tickets range from €15 to €30, and are available online.
• Master classes: lessons on playing ancient instruments and working with musical technologies. Participation fee: 10–25€, schedule on the official website.
• Lectures: Every two weeks, thematic lectures on musical history and rare instruments are organized. Admission is free, but advance registration is required.
• Children’s programs: interactive excursions and classes for schoolchildren, cost from €5.
• Special Exhibitions: Seasonal events dedicated to rare musical instruments or eras. Price included in the general admission ticket.
• Virtual tours: held once a month, participation – 5€, registration on the museum website.
• International conferences: annually bring together researchers of music history. Participation upon request.
• Festivals: mini-concerts and musical shows held on the museum grounds in spring and autumn. Admission by ticket.

These events introduce participants to the fascinating world of music, combining history and modernity. The events are suitable for both professionals and amateurs, providing a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the art of music.

Advice:

Attend an evening concert at the museum – the acoustics of the ancient building will make the experience unforgettable.

How to get there

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is located in the heart of the city, in a historic building that is also an important architectural landmark. Convenient transportation links make it easy to get here by both public and private transport. Metro stations and bus stops are in the immediate vicinity of the museum.

How to get to the museum:

• By bus. Route No. 95 (stop “MIM – Musée des Instruments de Musique”).
• By tram. Lines 92 and 94, get off at the stop “MIM”.
• By trolleybus. Line No. 8, stop “MIM”.
• By car. Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Bruxelles. Parking is available next to the museum, but there are limited spaces.
• By metro. Station “Bourse” (lines 1 and 5), then walk 5 minutes.
• On foot. The museum is within walking distance from the Grand Place, about 10 minutes on foot.

The museum is close to attractions such as the Grand Place, the Royal Palace, and other cultural sites of Brussels such as the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Comic Strip Museum. All of these places are conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to plan a rich cultural program.

Advice:

Don’t miss the unique collection of historical musical instruments, which includes more than 8,000 exhibits from all over the world.

Opening hours, ticket prices, contacts

Up-to-date information on opening hours, ticket prices and contacts of the Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is always available on the official website of the museum. It is recommended to check the data in advance, as it may change depending on the season and events. The site also contains the latest news and features of the visit.

Useful information for tourists

• Opening hours: Monday-Friday from 10:00 to 18:00, weekends from 10:00 to 19:00.
• Ticket prices: Adults – €10, students and pensioners – €7, children under 12 – free.
• Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
• Website: http://www.mim.be.
• Phone: +32 2 545 01 30.

The Museum of Musical Instruments in Brussels is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of sounds and history of musical instruments. When planning your visit, be sure to check the museum’s official website for up-to-date information on special offers and events. It’s a great place for anyone interested in music and cultural heritage.