Founded in 1998 and opened to the public in March 2000, the Museum of Making Music celebrates the accomplishments and impact of the people who make, sell, and use musical instruments and products. It does this through unique exhibitions, vibrant and varied live music performances, and innovative educational programs.

The Museum is a program division of the NAMM Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and receives operational support from NAMM. Additional revenue is raised through donations from businesses and corporations, government and foundation grants, museum and program admissions, Museum Store sales, special fundraising events such as the annual gala, and memberships.

NAMM, the National Association of Music Merchants, is a not-for-profit association that serves and strengthens the global music products industry. NAMM and its world-famous trade shows serve as a hub for people seeking out the newest innovations in musical products, recording technology, and sound and lighting equipment.

We envision a world in which the joy of making music is a precious element of daily living for everyone; a world in which every child has a deep desire to learn music and a recognized right to be taught; and in which every adult is a passionate champion and defender of that right.

The Museum of Making Music explores the accomplishments and impact of the music products industry through exhibitions and programs, and directly connects visitors with live music and music making opportunities.

• Music and music making are essential elements of the full human experience
• Providing equal access to museum exhibitions and programs is central to our work
• Exploring connections between people, instruments and the music we make is an important message
• The story of the music products industry is an essential part of the overall cycle of music making
• Exposure to musicians and live music is important to one's understanding of music making