Austin: Texas Music Museum

The Texas Music Museum, located in East Austin, is dedicated to archiving, preserving, and showcasing the rich musical heritage of Texas. Celebrating over 40 years of history, the museum highlights the contributions of Texas musicians across various genres and eras.

What You Can See at the Texas Music Museum:

Photographs and Memorabilia:

• The museum houses an extensive collection of photographs documenting the careers and lives of Texas musicians.
• Personal memorabilia, including stage outfits and instruments, provides an intimate look into the lives of these artists. For instance, visitors can see Lydia Mendoza’s dress and Manuel Donley’s first guitar.

Rare Recordings and Videos:

• Rare audio recordings and videos of live performances offer a unique glimpse into the history and evolution of Texas music.
• The collection includes early recordings on Edison phonographs, highlighting the technological advancements in music recording.

Instruments and Equipment:

• Notable instruments on display include the famous Robert Shaw Barrelhouse piano.
• The museum also features an Edison Amberola and other historical phonographs, providing insight into the early days of music playback technology.

Exhibits on Influential Musicians:

• The museum celebrates influential artists such as Eva Garza, who paved the way for Tejano artists like Selena.
• Exhibits also focus on the contributions of African American and Mexican American musicians to the Texas music scene.

Educational Programs and Workshops:

• The museum offers various educational programs aimed at preserving and promoting Texas music heritage.
• Workshops and events are held to engage the community and foster a deeper understanding of the state’s musical legacy.

Expansion Plans:

The Texas Music Museum is currently advocating for an expansion to accommodate its growing collection and enhance its exhibits. Proposed developments across from its current location in East Austin could provide the additional space needed to better serve the community and celebrate Austin’s diverse music history.