Museo de Instrumentos Musicales de Bolivia (Museum of Musical Instruments), La Paz

The Museum of Musical Instruments in La Paz, established in 1962 by Ernesto Cavour Aramayo, an esteemed Bolivian musician, is a notable place situated in the historic Calle Jaen. This museum, under private ownership, serves as a repository of Bolivia's indigenous musical traditions.

Occupying two levels, the museum presents Bolivia's most comprehensive collection of native instruments. Highlights include flutes made from volcanic rock in erotic shapes, guitars using armadillo shells, and a large palm leaf pan-pipe playable only while standing. These exhibits offer insight into Bolivia's unique musical customs.

The museum comprises seven sections, each displaying over 2,000 percussion, string, and wind instruments from different Bolivian areas. The charangos, resembling Andean guitars and crafted from unconventional materials like turtle shells and mules' teeth, are particularly noteworthy, reflecting the ingenuity of Bolivian musicians.

The museum also features an interactive area where visitors can experiment with traditional instruments. Additionally, it offers lessons in charango and wind instruments for a small fee, deepening the engagement with local musical culture.

Furthermore, the museum includes an art gallery, library, and workshop, enriching visitors' understanding of Bolivian music. A highlight is the weekly Saturday night charango concert, showcasing La Paz's accomplished musicians and experimental instruments.