The exhibition rooms are enticingly arranged to take you through some ninety thematic displays spread over four levels. The various themes are illustrated by extracts of music representative of the instruments on show.
Virtual tourHistory of musical instruments in Europe
In this room you'll find thematic, more or less chronological exhibits from Western classical music, ranging from late medieval and renaissance times up to the end of the 19th century.
Keyboards
This room tells the story of keys and keyboards in the Western world. It's a story of invention, codification, exploration and endless possibilities.
Traditional instruments
A favourite for many visitors is the room dedicated to traditional musical instruments. The tour starts in Belgium and passes through a whole series of European traditions to cultures from around the world. Besides the well-known Scottish version, many more countries appear to have their own type of bagpipes, Tibetan monks make musical instruments out of the bones of their deceased colleagues, and African slit drums are the local form of Twitter.
Musicus Mechanicus
A selection of the collection of mechanical, electrical and electronic instruments. On this floor you will also find clocks and bells.