About The Music House Museum

Once upon a time, amidst the rustic charm of a dairy barn nestled within the historic Stiffler family farm just a stone’s throw away from Traverse City, Michigan, an architect and an engineer embarked on a journey that would resonate through the corridors of time. Far from the setting of a joke, their footsteps marked the inception of what would become the beloved Music House Museum.

Their shared ardor for rediscovering and reviving the enchanting world of automated musical instruments breathed life into the barn, transforming it into a sanctuary of resplendent treasures from ages past. Fuelled by their passion to safeguard this invaluable slice of musical heritage, they meticulously refurbished the barn and its adjoining granary from 1979 to 1982. What emerged was a meticulously crafted ode to yesteryears – a turn-of-the-century marvel adorned with parlors, a quaint general store, and even a nostalgic saloon.

The allure of their creation was undeniable. Friends and acquaintances, captivated by the symphony of sights and sounds within, urged them to share their masterpiece with the world. And thus, in 1983, the Music House Museum made its grand debut, offering a gateway to a bygone era filled with melody and magic.

The granary, once a humble abode for the farm’s laborers and fondly known as the ‘old house’, now reverberated with the timeless strains of music. It was this transformation that lent the museum its evocative name – a testament to its humble origins now steeped in musical opulence.

Since unlocking its doors to the public, the museum has welcomed over 450,000 visitors, each enthralled by the guided tours that unfurl tales of craftsmanship, history, and the intricate engineering behind each instrument. From the delicate chimes of antique music boxes to the grandeur of majestic organs, the museum’s collection spans centuries, offering a panoramic journey through the evolution of automated music.

Step into our world, where every instrument bears witness to a bygone era. Led by knowledgeable docents, guests embark on a sensory voyage, from the haunting melodies of the 1899 Regina Corona Music Box to the spellbinding performances of the 1925 Webber Duo-Art reproducing piano, echoing Gershwin’s timeless “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Immerse yourself in the magic of silent cinema, accompanied by the melodious strains of the 1924 Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, or marvel at the sheer magnificence of the 1922 Mortier Dance Hall Organ, whose resounding notes fill the air with a symphony of unparalleled grandeur.

Each instrument, meticulously restored to its former glory using authentic materials, beckons visitors into a world where history resonates with every note. Wander through meticulously recreated turn-of-the-century vignettes, each offering a glimpse into the environments where these instruments once thrived.

As the guided tour concludes, guests are invited to explore the self-guided tour gallery, where a treasure trove of phonographs, jukeboxes, and radios awaits. Delve into the enchanting world of the Miniature City, a labor of love meticulously crafted by local artisans, offering a miniature glimpse into the heart of Traverse City’s storied past.

And the journey doesn’t end there. The museum pulsates with life throughout the season, playing host to an array of concerts, events, and the beloved Silent Film Series. Whether it’s a whimsical school outing or a romantic wedding reception, the Music House Museum offers the perfect backdrop for every occasion, weaving a tapestry of memories that resonate through time.

So come, wander through the corridors of history, where every melody is a symphony, and every instrument, a storyteller. Welcome to the Music House Museum – where the echoes of the past harmonize with the promise of tomorrow.