Highlights of the collection and new exhibition include:
•    some of the world’s earliest automated musical instruments including the famous kangaroo pouch music machine
•    artworks, photographs, scores, letters and other documents, furniture, jewellery and costume collected by Grainger during his life
•    colourful and eccentric towelling clothing designed and made by Grainger
•    photographs and paraphernalia relating to Grainger and his wife Ella’s interest in sado-masochism
•    a newly commissioned ‘interactive’ exhibit telling the story of Grainger’s life, passions and music.

One of only a handful of autobiographical museums in the world, the refurbished museum displays items that internationally acclaimed Australian pianist and composer Percy Grainger collected over the course of his life, and eventually gave to the University along with finance for the museum building and a sum of money for a Trust to ensure its care.

There will be an opportunity for media to preview the museum ahead of the re-opening on Friday 15 October at 10-11.30am.  University Librarian Philip Kent, and Grainger Museum Curators Brian Allison and Astrid Krautschneider will be available to speak about Grainger’s life, work and enduring influence, and show media through the museum.

WHAT:    Media preview – reopening of Grainger Museum

WHEN:    Friday 15 October at 10-11.30am

WHERE:    Grainger Museum, University of Melbourne
    Royal Parade Parkville (near Gate 13)

Wilson Parking available under the nearby Parkville Neurosciences Facility (under construction)
http://www.pcs.unimelb... (Ref I11)

(The Grainger Museum will be re-opened to the public from Sunday 17 October, Open Tuesday to Friday 1pm - 4.30pm, Sunday 1pm - 4.30pm. Closed Monday and Saturday, public holidays and Christmas through January).