Our collection is vast and full of incredible stories, but not every instrument fits neatly into the themes of our main exhibits. That’s what makes our “From the Collection” displays so special. These showcases give us the chance to bring out some truly remarkable artifacts that might otherwise stay behind the scenes.

In Gallery 1, you can explore some of our brass instruments, including trumpets, French horns, and cornets. Among them is a particularly eye-catching piece from swing-era musician Frank Nelson: the famously nicknamed “Crumpled Cornet.” True to its name, the instrument is visibly crushed. Yet remarkably, Nelson continued to play it in this condition. It’s a striking reminder of both the resilience of musicians and the unique stories instruments can carry.

We’re also thrilled to have our Hammond B-3 organ back on display. This iconic instrument is accompanied by vintage advertising that highlights how Hammond promoted its revolutionary sound throughout the 20th century. It’s a glimpse not only into musical innovation, but also into the marketing creativity of the era.

Over in Gallery 4, you’ll find a diverse assortment of harmonicas that showcase just how inventive these small instruments can be. From unusual shapes to intricate designs, the display includes standout pieces like the Hohner “Trumpet Call” harmonica and the Rolmonica, nicknamed the “player piano in your pocket” for its use of perforated paper scrolls to produce melodies. Each harmonica offers a different perspective on how music can be made portable, playful, and endlessly creative.