Music, Science, and Innovation Take Center Stage in MIM’s New Gallery September 19, 2017 Explore the science behind music and musical instruments PHOENIX (September 19, 2017) – This fall, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) presents the STEM Gallery, a new, innovative space that explores the important connections between music and science. Building on the success of MIM’s most popular student field trip, multiple displays within the new gallery will explore themes of sound creation, technological innovation, the human ear, hearing safety, and much more in a dedicated space. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to learn more about the science behind some of their favorite instruments and how we as humans experience sound. MIM collaborated with experts from 3M, the interactive learning company ansrsource, and the Dangerous Decibels® project to create original content for the gallery. Key concepts that illustrate just how science brings music to life can be experienced through original video, interactive technology, and instruments from all over the globe. Highlights of the gallery will include: Slow-motion and Schlieren video footage of musical instrument vibrations, including selections courtesy of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra A whimsical study of the distinctive “voice” or timbre of different instruments An interactive “Jolene” mannequin that guests can demo to learn more about sound levels and hearing safety A deconstructed Stratocaster electric guitar showing innovation in this iconic instrument’s construction Musical instruments from around the world that highlight different means of sound production, including electronic instruments used in digital music creation While the STEM Gallery will be an important part of guided field trips for students, it will also allow self-guided groups and general museum guests to deepen their understanding of the connections between music and science. MIM is excited to welcome all audiences when the gallery opens in the near future. It will be a fun and engaging space that will spark curiosity and leave guests thinking about music in new and stimulating ways. “Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects are so important in education today,” says Brian Dredla, MIM’s director of education and public programs. “It’s exciting to offer a peek into the science behind an art form. This can make you love music—or science—even more! MIM is always trying something new and we really hope this gallery will get people asking questions and appreciating music in new ways.” The STEM gallery is included with museum admission. The Musical Instrument Museum is located at 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard in Phoenix (corner of Tatum and Mayo Boulevards, just south of Loop 101). For general museum information and a full schedule of events, visit MIM.org or call 480.478.6000. *** About 3M 3M is focused on the task of generating breakthroughs that make life even better. 3M does this by embracing the creativity and risk taking it takes to innovate guided by the notion that science is just science, until you apply it to something. 3M science surrounds us all every day: in safer food, safer roads and safer airplanes; in cleaner hospitals, cleaner air and power – all based on 46 unique technology platforms. These are just a few examples of how 3M is working to address the world’s challenges using science to create a real impact in every life around the world. About ansrsource ansrsource provides learning consulting, design, and delivery services using its full-time team of hundreds of passionate global experts. ansrsource designs and builds the assessment, instruction, and interactivity that facilitates effective, affordable, accessible, and personalized online learning in academic and professional environments around the world. About Dangerous Decibels® The Dangerous Decibels® project is a public health campaign designed to reduce the incidence and prevalence of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and tinnitus (ringing in the ear) by changing knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of school-aged children. About MIM The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) enriches our world by collecting, preserving, and making accessible an astonishing variety of musical instruments and performance videos from every country in the world. MIM offers guests a welcoming and fun experience, incomparable interactive technology, dynamic programming, and exceptional musical performances. MIM fosters appreciation of the world’s diverse cultures by showing how we innovate, adapt, and learn from each other to create music—the language of the soul. Find MIM on Facebook: Facebook.com/MIMphx Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube: @MIMphx Media Contact Johann Warnholtz Media Relations Specialist Johann.Warnholtz@MIM.org 480.245.6953 DOWNLOAD PDF
