Yale University Collection of Musical Instruments

A perusal of Yale’s famed Collection of Musical Instruments is a must-​do while on campus. Tucked away on Hillhouse Avenue (supposedly the street deemed by Mark Twain and Charles Dickens «the most beautiful street in America») and filled with treasures, «the Collection,» as it is affectionately referred to, is a charming foray into history and musical refinement. The friendly and quirky staff of curators and student interns are always willing to engage in conversation. The instruments themselves range from ancient bells to grandiose baroque harpsichords. Highly recommend this pit stop!

A
trip
to
the
past
Simply one of the best collections of ancient musical instruments in the whole damn country. If you are not interested in ancient music then you have never heard of this place and will never visit, but if you do happen to play the lute, recorder or harpsichord this is a place you should visit at least once in your life. Of course it’s look and don’t touch unless you happen to be a world class musician, but just standing next to the few surviving authentic ancient musical instruments is a thrill. The hours to the museum seem to vary so call to make sure it is open. but they do have concerts by great musicians using the authentic instruments on occasion.
The museum is a small dusty place reeking of history. If you bother to visit the person inside will look like he is shocked to see anyone actually coming in, but for anyone interested in ancient music this is an absolute must. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars.