Haus der Musik (House of Music), Vienna

The House of Music in Vienna, located within the historical Archduke Karl Palace, provides a comprehensive exploration of music through interactive and immersive exhibits. Opened in 2000, it spans 5,000 m², focusing on Viennese classicism, the evolution of sound, and the history of the Vienna Philharmonic.

The museum occupies a building with a history dating back to the 16th century, initially serving as an imperial foundry for cannon production. It later became the residence of Archduke Karl of Austria-Teschen, who introduced the Christmas tree tradition to the Habsburg-Lorraine House. In the 20th century, it transformed into a cultural hub and student residence, and today it includes the Museum of the Vienna Philharmonic.

Visitors enter through a courtyard, greeted by a grand piano in the entrance hall. The museum's layout includes interactive installations like the "Stairplay" piano staircase.

The first floor, formerly the residence of composer Otto Nicolai, showcases the Vienna Philharmonic's illustrious history, featuring memorabilia, concert posters, and interactive experiences, such as an hourly cinema and a waltz dice game inspired by Mozart and Haydn.

The second floor, Sonotopia, offers an interactive exhibit on sound and auditory perception, with installations exploring various sound aspects, including the Origin Room and Wave Tube. It provides interactive experiences with sound phenomena and delves into human ear anatomy and sound production.

The third floor is dedicated to Viennese Classicism, highlighting composers like Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and others through personal items, instruments, and interactive displays. It features holograms, historical musical settings, and focuses on the composers' impacts and the era's musical evolution.

The fourth floor includes the Virtual Conductor, allowing visitors to lead the Vienna Philharmonic, and a "Room of Silence" for contemplation. The museum concludes with a shop on the fourth floor, offering music certificates and sound-themed souvenirs, encapsulating a rich auditory and educational journey through Vienna's musical heritage.