Music Machines & Me

From 15 April, the museum will transform into a place where you don’t just look and listen, but above all get to make and do things yourself. Inspired by the extraordinary music machines from the museum’s collection, you will dive into the technology behind these instruments. How do these clever mechanisms ensure that a tune suddenly starts playing? In Music Machines & Me, you will find out for yourself and, step by step, grow into a true creator! As you unravel the secrets of the historical instruments, you will work towards creating your own digital music machine.

Gears & grooves, bells & beats

The entire first floor is filled with interactive hands-on displays. You’re invited to turn everything, test things out and press buttons! During your journey of discovery, you will encounter remarkable inventors and robotic narrators who will help guide you. They will show you how technology is all around us, even in the things you use every day.

You will experiment with mechanical technology such as gears, crankshafts and levers. By testing things yourself, you will see step by step how movement can turn into rhythm, sound and ultimately music. You will also experience how musical instruments from all over the world sound, how to programme music and how to play it live.

How does your music machine sound?

At the end, it’s your turn: like a real inventor, you’ll create your own digital music machine. You’ll choose, combine and programme, and watch your creation come to life. This music machine will be saved in an online repository: this way, you’ll help build the collection of the future!

Not finished creating yet? In the Maker Space, you can take part in workshops and continue experimenting with technology and music. The workshops are available during the school holidays upon registration. More information to follow.

Come and discover Music Machines & Me for yourself from 15 April!