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Discover musical heritage at the Horniman Museum

The Horniman Museum's musical journey began in the late 19th century. It traces roots back to Frederick Horniman, who collected musical instruments from around the world. These instruments showcase the diversity of global music traditions. Today, the museum and Select Recording Studios offer rich insights for listeners, fans, locals, and travellers.

This page supports our content about nearby attractions. You can also dive deeper into Hyde Park, London, explore Hampton Court Palace, and check out our guide to Recording studio London.
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    Visitors to the Horniman can explore fascinating music attractions. The museum's Music Gallery displays a vast collection of instruments. Seasonal festivals often take place, celebrating various musical cultures. Its beautiful gardens host summer concerts, adding to the lively atmosphere.

    To fully enjoy your visit, plan ahead. Check the museum's calendar for live performances. Explore local record shops for rare finds and unique sounds. Engage with community events that celebrate music. These experiences enhance your understanding and appreciation of music in London.

    Exploring the Horniman Museum's music events connects you to its rich history. These activities bring the museum's diverse collections to life. They offer a unique chance for listeners, fans, locals, and travellers to experience music's lasting impact.

    Hear from those who have crafted their sound with us

    A friend of mine was given a day at Select Studios as a gift and I was invited along for the ride, along with another friend. As a trio we worked with the highly competent Paul to lay down the tracks for two songs. Once that was done, the usual studio magic and trickery was applied and we left that day satisfied with the professional-sounding recording we got out of it. Paul was easy to get along with and we shared ideas as he endeavoured to get the best out of us. The process was a fun and straightforward experience.

    Adam Carrier

    Great experience today with Paul! Very welcoming, put me at ease straight away and made me feel comfortable and confident in his studio and abilities. Very knowledgeable. So happy with my studio session which was bought for me last Christmas as a gift voucher. Should have done it sooner!

    Kerra King

    My partner bought be an 8hr session with Paul to kick start recording a number of songs I've written over the years. I was really nervous about the whole thing but Paul immediately put me at ease, explained the process clearly and the whole day was great fun from start to finish. Paul is not only a multi talented engineer, he's also a very accomplished musician. Can't wait to go back (to finish my album, ha!)

    carolyn stopp
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    Unforgettable musical events and activities

    At the Horniman Museum, music plays a key role in the events and activities offered. Here's a look at some of the vibrant music-related experiences you can enjoy:

    Bandstand Concerts:
    In the warmer months, the museum's historic bandstand hosts live performances from various artists and bands, offering visitors a chance to enjoy music in a picturesque setting.

    World Music Festival:
    This annual festival celebrates diverse musical styles from around the globe, featuring performances and workshops that highlight different cultures and traditions.

    African Summer Events:
    A series of events focused on African music, these include drumming workshops and live concerts, providing an interactive platform for exploring African rhythms and sounds.

    Folk Music Day:
    A celebration of British folk music, this event includes live folk music performances and traditional dance. It's an engaging way to discover local musical heritage.

    Weekend Family Workshops:
    Regular weekend workshops offer families a chance to make music together using various instruments from the museum's collection.

    Understanding transport links to the Horniman Museum is crucial for a smooth visit. Easy access ensures fans, locals, and tourists can enjoy music events without hassle. Knowing your travel options helps make the most of your cultural experience.

    Navigating your way to music and culture

    Reaching the Horniman Museum is simple with several convenient transport options. These links help you easily access music venues, festivals, and cultural spots:

    Forest Hill Station:
    Just a 10-minute walk from the museum, this station connects to London Overground and Southern Rail services, offering easy access from central London and other areas.

    Honor Oak Park Station:
    Another nearby station, about a 15-minute walk away, served by London Overground and Southern Rail, providing a quick route for visitors from various parts of the city.

    Bus Routes:
    Bus numbers 176, 185, and 197 stop directly outside the museum, offering frequent services from different areas, making it easy for you to hop off right at the entrance.

    Car Parking:
    Limited on-site parking is available, and visitors can also find nearby street parking, allowing convenient access for those choosing to drive.

    Cycle Routes:
    London’s cycling routes bring you close to the museum, which provides bike racks for safe and easy bicycle storage during your visit.

    These transport links ensure everyone can reach the Horniman Museum easily, enhancing your overall experience by making attendance at events and exploring cultural spots convenient.

    Navigating music venues, local eats, and event transport options

    Many intimate music venues are scattered throughout the city, each offering unique experiences. These venues often host a range of performances that cater to diverse musical tastes. When you're visiting the Musical Heritage Centre, you can discover some of these charming spots just a short distance away.
    Yes, many concert venues are surrounded by excellent local food spots. After enjoying a show, you can explore eateries offering diverse cuisines that suit every palate. When near the Global Sounds Gallery, try local cafes and restaurants for a memorable culinary experience.
    Live shows are generally best in the evenings when the atmosphere becomes lively. Weekend nights are particularly bustling with energy and full of enthusiastic audiences. At the Cultural Melody Exhibition, you can often find the best performances varying throughout the week.
    Most music event locations provide some form of parking, but it can be limited during peak times. It's wise to arrive early or consider alternative transport options to avoid hassle. At the Instrument Collection Hall, public transport links often prove more convenient than navigating crowded parking areas.
    Reaching music festivals by public transport can often be the most efficient method. Services are usually enhanced during major events to accommodate higher visitor numbers. For the World Music Showcase, plan your route with local buses and trains for a smooth journey.
    Understanding how to reach and enjoy music venues is just one part of experiencing the local music scene. Select Recording Studios offers another layer of discovery for fans and artists alike. Located in NW10, it connects you to where music is created, complementing your journey from live performances to behind-the-scenes creativity.

    Unveiling the sounds of Select Recording Studios

    Select Recording Studios began in the early 1990s, founded by music enthusiasts with a passion for quality sound. They wanted to create a space where artists could produce high-quality recordings with the latest technology. Over the years, the studio has worked with both emerging and established artists, making it a trusted name in the industry.

    Located in NW10, the studio quickly gained a reputation for its excellent acoustics and welcoming atmosphere. Musicians appreciate its blend of vintage and modern equipment, providing a unique environment for creativity. The studio's engineers are known for their keen ears and commitment to bringing out the best in every project.

    Today, Select Recording Studios continues to be a sought-after location for recording in London. It remains connected to the music community by nurturing talent and fostering innovation. Whether you're a seasoned musician or new to the scene, the studio offers a space where your music can truly shine.

    Your route to musical exploration

    Getting from the Horniman Museum to Select Recording Studios is straightforward. Start by taking a train from Forest Hill Station towards central London. Once there, switch to a service heading to the Willesden Junction area, which gets you close to the studios. Consider using a bus or a quick cab ride for the final leg of the journey. With efficient public transport, you'll find yourself at the heart of music-making in no time.

    For a smooth journey, check the map below for detailed directions from the museum to the studio. If you need more details about Select Recording Studios, like opening hours and reviews, their Google Business Profile has you covered.
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