Welcome to the Sigal Music Museum, a remarkable repository of musical history located in Greenville, South Carolina. This site, housed in a building that once served as a Coca-Cola bottling plant, offers a unique glimpse into the world of historical musical instruments. The museum was founded in 2017 by passionate keyboard collectors Tom and Deborah Strange, along with Steven Bichel and Beth Marr Lee. It was originally known as the Carolina Music Museum before undergoing a significant transformation following a generous donation from the estate of Marlowe A. Sigal.
Marlowe Sigal, a renowned instrument collector, left behind a treasure trove of instruments valued at $3.1 million, facilitating the museum’s expansion and name change. Among the museum’s most prized possessions is a 1761 Jacob Kirkman harpsichord, which carries the storied legacy of being played by an eight-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart during his family’s grand tour in London. Another highlight is an 1845 John Broadwood & Sons grand piano, famously played by Frédéric Chopin during his tour of Great Britain in May 1848.
The museum’s collection spans over 400 years of musical history, with instruments ranging from a 1575 harpsichord to an 1815 Walter Grand Piano. The Sigal Music Museum is not just a static display; it is a vibrant center for musical education and engagement. Thanks to a collaboration with Alex Davis of Tempest Instruments, the museum is working on a project to create digital versions of these historical instruments, allowing musicians and enthusiasts to virtually experience playing them.
Located at Heritage Green, the museum plays an active role in community events, such as the Hampton-Pinckney PorchFest, where it serves as a presenting sponsor. This festival celebrates music and history, aligning perfectly with the museum’s mission to engage the community through music and culture.
As you explore the museum, imagine the historical figures who once played these instruments, and consider the craftsmanship that has allowed them to survive for centuries. Each instrument tells a story, from the royal courts of Europe to the hands of legendary composers. Enjoy your journey through time at the Sigal Music Museum.
