An Exhibition of Musical Instruments “The Touch” to Open at the Liepāja Concert Hall

From November 16, 2024, to March 2, 2025, the Latvian National Museum of Literature and Music (LNRMM) will present the musical instrument collection exhibition "The Touch" at the "Civita Nova" art space in the Liepāja Concert Hall "Great Amber." This exhibition, dedicated to the museum’s centenary, features 44 instruments from LNRMM's collection, spanning from the early 18th century to the present day. Organized into six categories—keyboard, string, bowed, wind, percussion, and innovative instruments—it offers a selection of musical instruments that highlight Latvia’s history and craftsmanship. The public is invited to the opening on November 16 at 16:30.

“The exhibition centers around stories of Latvian craftsmanship and the unique contributions of instrument makers through generations, integrating into European traditions while maintaining originality and innovation. Another selection theme explores the relationship between the instruments and notable figures in Latvian culture. This narrative is extended through large-scale black-and-white photographs and videos featuring outstanding contemporary Latvian performing artists with their instruments,” says LNRMM Director Iveta Ruskule.

Visitors will experience six audiovisual stories about each instrument group, as well as interactive digital sound demonstrations of individual instruments. The "Masters’ Wall" will provide insights into Latvia’s instrument makers. Visitors can also interact with the exhibits, testing the weight of instruments, experimenting with sound on the “Sound Bench,” trying the sensory observation trainer “Trīsskanis,” and exploring tactile instruments.

The exhibition is designed to be an immersive experience for all—young and old, amateurs and professionals alike. In collaboration with SocIntegra and RTU Liepāja Academy, it is especially accessible to people with visual impairments.

For families and children, the exhibition is complemented by the activity booklet The Touch, which includes intriguing facts about music and instruments, an interview with singer Katrīna Gupalo, as well as puzzles, coloring pages, and various engaging activities.

“We are thrilled that the idea once expressed by Imants Rešnis to display a permanent collection of LNRMM instruments in Liepāja’s concert hall has partly come to life. Where better than a concert hall to showcase this remarkable collection? We are honored that the exhibition opens here, and we thank the museum for this opportunity,” states Timur Tomson, Chairman of the Board of the Liepāja Concert Hall "Great Amber."

“This unique musical instrument collection exhibition is made even more special by being accessible to those living outside the capital. We are honored to contribute to this exceptional exhibition by insuring all these valuable musical instruments,” adds Oskars Hartmanis, Chairman of the Board of the BTA Baltic Insurance Company.

The organizers extend their gratitude to the “Great Amber” team, Liepāja Culture and Municipal departments, Liepāja Blind Association, RTU Liepāja Academy’s New Media Art and Design students, and students from the Liepāja Music, Art, and Design Secondary School.

Exhibition Team: Curator – Liena Šmukste, Scenographer – Māris Ruskulis, Light Design – Mārtiņš Feldmanis, Sound Design – Jēkabs Nīmanis and Pāvils Jurjāns, Large-Scale Photography – Jānis Porietis, Texts – Agnese Rutkēviča, and the LNRMM research and implementation team.

Supporters: State Culture Capital Foundation, Ministry of Culture, Liepāja Municipality, AAS "BTA Baltic Insurance Company."

Exhibition Dates: November 16, 2024 – March 2, 2025
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 11:00–17:00
Saturday, Sunday: 10:00–15:00
Admission: Free

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