Friends of the Bate

Current projects

Current projects supported by the Friends' include: the provision of an interactive display for use in the gallery, support towards the purchase, restoration and photography of new specimens. We have recently provided a Sound Guide for visitors including samples of instruments in the collection being played. This has been a huge hit with our visitors. Our next major project is to assist with the production of gallery guides.

Benefits of membership

• Newsletter three times a year containing articles about the collection and events
• Informal musical introductions to the collection
• Musical events including concerts and recitals
• Lectures on musical instruments, composers and society
• Exclusive access to the museum for private events
• Discount at the Collection's shop, which has many unusual, musically themed gifts
• The satisfaction of aiding a world-class collection in the acquisition, maintenance and display of important musical instruments

Download Membership Application

As well as the usual Friend's activities, many members actively participate in the Bate Volunteer programme. Recent activities have included: Helping with preparing Special Exhibitions; Assiting with the care and conservation of the collection; playing instruments as part of the Archival Recording project; And helping Andy tidy the work-room (not a very popular activity)!

If you have any questions, please contact the Bate Manager at bate.manager@music.ox.ac.uk