Pictures of clarinets and trombones and the crashing sound of cymbals resonated when I imagined the April 2010, Phoenix grand opening of the world’s first-of-its-kind global Musical Instrument Museum. A banjo on display. A wall of harmonicas. My interest was not peaked. However, immediately after a little research, while stepping back from snare drum stereotyping, the Musical Instrument Museum is a world beyond just a collaboration of musical instruments intended for college football games, string orchestras or jazz bands.

The museum houses and celebrates music as the universal language throughout history and culture. In other words, it goes without disappointment to know that the entire collection includes instruments from every country in the world, exuding musical expressions in every medium.

The Musical Instrument Museum, that began construction in February 2008, envisions itself as a gateway for story-telling that unveils secrets, releases emotion, and exposes hidden talents, all evoked by the unique sounds from diverse instruments. In this case, MIM states that, “we invite people from every nation and walk of life to come and share in this common legacy.”

Guests can expect to explore the world “from the mountains of South America” and “African savannah” “to the rainforests of Southeast Asia” by journeying through these extraordinary exhibits, galleries, displays, and collections. Films will be previewed and live performances will feature “traditional, contemporary, instrumental, and vocal music from all regions of the world,” taking place in an auditorium created for 300 viewers. Visitors will also encounter many opportunities for interactivity, for example, the Experience Room welcomes the touching, playing and hearing of various instruments. MIM boasts advanced technology, audio and acoustics that allow guests to experience first-hand the unfamiliar sounds.

So venture beyond your general understanding of musical instruments. In my history, the recorder reminds me of my early childhood. Piano lessons and piano recitals bring back memories of family tradition. And my flute is reminiscent of one of the greatest times in my life. I feel what instruments, sound and music have done to me, and I excitedly count down until the opportunity this spring to travel across the world in search of unknown artifacts and unique sounds, all within the confined walls of this museum.

Furthermore, MIM will offer a restaurant and gift shop. Admission fees will be modest, and all ages are encouraged to visit. Students in grades K-12 will be able to schedule and participate in school tours.

Couldn’t we all afford a glimpse into truly seeing what connects humans universally? Become immersed in the honor and appreciation of harmonies that understand no boundaries. “The Musical Instrument Museum welcomes the young and the old, the uninitiated and the knowledgeable, to explore and experience the rich diversity of the world’s music and musical instruments.”