Ever heard a serpent sing? At the Bate Collection of Musical Instruments you can almost hear the whispers of centuries past. This remarkable collection in Oxford University’s Faculty of Music is a treasure trove of musical history. It’s not just a museum; it’s a living archive.
The Bate Collection boasts more than a thousand instruments. These aren’t dusty relics. They represent the evolution of Western classical music. From the Middle Ages to the modern day these instruments tell a story. The collection is named after Philip Bate a musicologist and collector. He generously gifted his collection to the university in 1968. It’s a testament to his passion and vision.
Within its walls you’ll find instruments by renowned English French and German makers. These are not just instruments they are works of art. Many are in playing condition. They are regularly used for performances and recitals. Think about that for a moment. You’re looking at instruments that have played for royalty or perhaps even for revolutionary leaders.
The Bate Collection isn’t just about the instruments themselves. It’s a collection of collections. It houses the Reginald Morley-Pegge Memorial Collection of horns and other brass and woodwind instruments. There’s also the Anthony Baines Collection and the Edgar Hunt Collection of recorders. Each donation adds another layer to the rich tapestry of musical history. The collection even includes a complete workshop belonging to the English bow-maker William C Retford.
The Bate Collection is open to the public. You can explore this incredible collection firsthand. You can see firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship. The detail is breathtaking. It is a place for academic study as well. Appointments can be made for researchers to access the archive. You might even hear some of the instruments played. This is more than just looking at artifacts. It is experiencing history in sound.
More than just a museum it is a center for research and education. The Bate Collection’s doors are open to all. It’s a place where the past plays on. Come and discover the voices from the past. Each instrument has a story to tell a testament to the artistry and the enduring power of music. The Bate Collection of Musical Instruments a must-see on your Oxford adventure.