Haus der Musik (House of Music), Vienna

Haus der Musik, also known as The House of Music, stands as a contemporary museum designed to offer visitors a hands-on experience with its exhibits on multiple levels. Spanning five floors, it is a unique museum entirely dedicated to the captivating realms of music and sound.

Covering an expansive 5,000 square meters, this facility has garnered numerous awards for its innovative approach to presenting its collections. Notable among these displays are various musical inventions that vividly showcase the diverse interpretations of what constitutes music. The range of experiences is truly astonishing. Here, you can take the reins of the Vienna Philharmonic, compose your own musical creations, witness your name inscribed in music by the hand of Mozart, and view the Vienna Philharmonic in action through videos of their New Year's and summer concerts.

An intriguing aspect of this venue is its historical location within the former Palace of Archduke Charles, which was once inhabited by Otto Nicolai during the mid-19th century. Nicolai, the founder of the Vienna Philharmonic and the renowned composer of the beloved work "The Merry Wives of Windsor," is commemorated here. This timeless comedic opera is also featured as part of the museum's exhibitions. In contemporary times, this museum has taken on the role of an official custodian of the Vienna Philharmonic's rich history. Whenever you find yourself in Vienna, be sure to include a visit to this remarkable destination in your plans.

Why You Should Visit:
To get a feel for the magnificence of the composers who once blessed Vienna with their presence.
To test your own musical talent on the Virtual Conductor, enjoy a short version of the famous New Year's Concert, compose your own waltz with the interactive Waltz Dice Game, learn more about Mozart, Strauss or Beethoven and experiment with pitch, sounds and musical instruments.
A good mix of information on the science of sound, the composition of music and famous composers.
Well worth a visit, particularly with kids.