National Music Museum

National Music Museum is on the University of South Dakota campus at jct. Clark and Yale sts. The museum illustrates the evolution of music with more than 15,000 instruments spanning 5 centuries. Approximately 1,200 instruments are on display, including what is reportedly the world's oldest cello and harpsichord. A collection of Italian stringed instruments 1540-1793 features a rare Stradivari guitar and the “Harrison” Stradivari violin. Celebrity guitars represent Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, John Entwistle, Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins and B.B. King.

Other galleries explore American musical traditions and unusual instruments from cultures throughout the world, including a zither shaped like a crocodile and a South Pacific trumpet mask. A self-guiding multimedia tour enhances the exhibits.

CLOSURE INFORMATION: The museum is closed for a major renovation project; renovations remain ongoing, with the first floor set to open in mid- to late 2023. Phone ahead for updates.