It’s not just the instrument collection that makes the MIM unique. As you enter the museum, you’ll receive a wireless headset (you can bring your own headphones or use those provided) that allows you to hear the instruments being played as you approach them.
Plus, the museum incorporates culture, geography, history, and even science into its 370 displays so you’ll learn about much more than music.
Plan on spending up to four hours touring the galleries, maybe even longer if you don’t think you’ll be able to pull yourself away from the Experience Gallery where you’re encouraged to play the instruments.
In addition to its regular galleries, the MIM has a full line-up of more than 200 concerts in its theater, special events, and programs geared specifically towards children and families. Here’s a rundown of what’s coming up this fall:
“Beyond the Beat: Drums of the World”: This special exhibit runs through October 11 and showcases more than 100 drums from 45 countries. Special exhibits include military drums, religious drums, and more from Asia, Oceania, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, and the United States. If you purchase general admission tickets to the museum, there is an additional charge of $7 to this exhibit; if you just want to see the exhibit, there’s a $10 charge for admission.
MIM Music Theater: Tickets for the fall series went on sale July 30, but there are plenty of great tickets still available for concerts ranging from the Colombian folk group Cimarron (Thursday, October 1) and South Pacific fusion band Te Vaka (Sunday, October 25) to 13-year-old pianist and composer Emily Bear (Saturday, October 3). Go online for the complete line-up.
Experience India: On September 5 and 6, the MIM celebrates the music and culture of India. Listen to live music, watch dance performances, participate in hands-on activities, and try henna body art. Admission to the event is included with paid admission to the museum.
Experience the Alps: In October, the MIM heads to Germany! The event is the perfect place to celebrate Oktoberfest as a family because the emphasis here is music, dance, and crafts, so there is something for everyone. Like the Experience India event, it’s free with paid admission to the museum.
MIMFest: The museum is hosting its second annual global music festival, featuring dozens of performers on three stages, on November 7 and 8. In addition to live music and hands-on activities for all ages, local food trucks will provide concessions. Tickets go on sale the week of August 24 (Pricing and additional information has not been released to the general public yet).
Family weekends: Watch for these themed weekends with music and hands-on activities for children. The next family weekend, October 17 and 18, focuses on the costumes and outfits on display at the MIM.
The MIM is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. General admission is $20 for adults, $15 for teens, and $10 for children ages 4-12. Parking is free.
Why not experience one of the best amenities in the North Scottsdale
area for yourself? If you want to make a day of it, give us a call for restaurant, shopping, and resort suggestions nearby.
