Royal College of Music (Museum of Instruments)

Based in London, in the U.K., the Royal College of Music is a well-known museum that houses internationally renowned music instruments. It has a collection of over 1 000 instruments and accessories from c.1480 to the present. These include over 700 European, keyboard, stringed and wind; and although small compared to the European collection the museum has over 100 Asian and African collections. Quite a number of instruments in the collection are in playing condition and can be heard during the museum’s events and guided tours. The museum is part of the International Committee of Musical Instrument Museums and Collections of ICOM.

It is open to members of the public from Tuesdays to Fridays at 11h30am until 4.30pm and closed for Christmas & Easter holidays. Admission is free. Royal College of Music staff and students may visit during public openings and at other times by appointment. Access for research purposes to the Centre's collections is strictly by prior appointment only. The museum hosts events for all age groups, including workshops for children, and special requirements visits.