Museu de la Música de Barcelona

The Museu de la Música de Barcelona, or Museo de la Música de Barcelona in its original Spanish name, is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Nestled in the vibrant district of Sant Martí, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of music, showcasing an impressive collection of instruments and documents from around the globe. From ancient civilizations to contemporary technological advancements, the Museu de la Música de Barcelona provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of musical instruments and their significance in various cultures.

The Building

Housed on the second floor of the modern Auditori de Barcelona, the Museu de la Música de Barcelona is a testament to contemporary architectural brilliance. Designed by the renowned Spanish architect Rafael Moneo, the Auditori was inaugurated in 1999 and boasts a sprawling 42,000 square meters. The museum itself was inaugurated in March 2007, marking the completion of the Ciutat de la Música project in Barcelona. This project also includes the home of the Orquesta Sinfónica de Barcelona y Nacional de Cataluña (OBC) and the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya (ESMuC).

The Auditori follows the Plan Cerdá, a visionary urban development plan by Ildefonso Cerdá, which envisioned the Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes as the geographical center of Barcelona. The area is easily accessible via public transport, with the Marina and Glòries metro stations on Line 1 of the Barcelona Metro providing convenient access. Over the years, the vicinity of the Auditori has undergone significant transformation, becoming part of the innovative District 22@, a hub for international firms and cutting-edge projects.

History

The Museu de la Música de Barcelona's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century. In June 1921, the Municipal Commission of Culture accepted a donation from a group of music-loving Barcelonans to establish the Museum of Theatre, Music, and Dance. By 1931, the majority of the collection was allocated to the Institute of Theatre, and subsequent donations enriched the museum's holdings. Notably, in 1932, Orsina Baget de Folch facilitated the donation of a significant collection of antique musical instruments, further enhancing the museum's offerings.

The Spanish Civil War temporarily halted the museum's progress, but it officially opened its doors on May 29, 1946, in an annex of the Conservatori Superior de Música del Liceu. The initial collection of instruments tripled, thanks to generous donations from musicians and the Catalan society. The museum's collection expanded to include European, African, Far Eastern, and Latin American instruments, reflecting the diverse musical heritage of these cultures.

In 1980, the museum relocated to the modernist Palace of the Baron of Quadras, designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1909. The collection was reorganized according to the acoustic nature and sound production of the instruments, making it accessible and engaging for visitors. The museum reopened on February 11, 1983, under the direction of Romà Escalas i Llimona, offering a public program of activities and services.

In 2001, the museum closed its doors at the Palace of the Baron of Quadras to prepare for its new home in the Auditori de Barcelona. The new location, inaugurated in March 2007, allows the museum to fulfill its mission of preserving, researching, and disseminating Barcelona's musical heritage.

The Collection

The Museu de la Música de Barcelona boasts an extensive and diverse collection of musical instruments and documents. With over 500 pieces on display from a total of 2,000 instruments, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the history and evolution of music. The collection includes 10,000 sound documents, providing an auditory journey through time.

String Instruments

The museum's collection of string instruments is particularly noteworthy. From the simplicity of an African musical bow to the intricate craftsmanship of an Arabic qanun, a Japanese koto, or an Indian sitar, the diversity of string instruments is well-represented. The collection of guitars is especially significant, featuring instruments from the 17th century to contemporary creations. Highlights include two guitars by the renowned luthier Antonio de Torres, one of which is considered one of the finest guitars ever made.

The museum also houses a remarkable collection of lutes, mandolins, pandoras, and citterns, showcasing the evolution of plucked string instruments. The collection of psalteries is the most extensive in the world, with 19 examples that provide a detailed study of this instrument's development from the Middle Ages to the 18th century.

The collection of bowed string instruments includes valuable viols and violins from renowned luthiers such as Barak Norman and Joachim Tielke. The museum's collection of keyboard string instruments features harpsichords, clavichords, and pianos, including notable examples like a 1737 harpsichord by Christian Zell and a grand piano by Broadwood and Sons from 1795.

Wind Instruments

The Museu de la Música de Barcelona's collection of wind instruments reflects the rich tradition of Catalan craftsmanship. The collection includes flutes, clarinets, bassoons, and tenoras, as well as a variety of brass instruments. Notable pieces include a metallic bassoon by Andrés Vidal and a historically significant tenora by José Ventura, constructed by Andreu Toron. The collection also features unique instruments such as the buccina (trombone) and the serpent from the 18th century.

Visiting the Museu de la Música de Barcelona

A visit to the Museu de la Música de Barcelona is a captivating experience that offers a deep dive into the world of music. The museum's thoughtfully curated exhibits and extensive collection provide a comprehensive understanding of the history and evolution of musical instruments. Whether you are a music enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious, the Museu de la Música de Barcelona promises an enriching and memorable visit.

In conclusion, the Museu de la Música de Barcelona is not just a museum; it is a vibrant celebration of music's rich heritage. Its extensive collection, housed in a modern architectural marvel, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of musical instruments and their cultural significance. A visit to this museum is a must for anyone looking to delve into the history of music and experience the diverse sounds that have shaped our world.