The Met owns one of the world's great instrument collections and rarely gives it a themed exhibition, so Musical Bodies is a chance to see the objects argued about rather than just displayed. It runs only to September 27 and is free with admission, which makes it easy to add to a bigger visit. If you play anything, or have ever wondered how a body and an instrument shape one another, this is the gallery worth finding.
What to expect
Expect a focused exhibition of instruments and related works, lit low for conservation and labelled with real detail about makers and playing techniques. It is a quieter corner of the Met than the Egyptian or European painting wings, so you can move at your own pace. Allow thirty to forty minutes, more if you use the audio guide.
Good to know
- Take the 4/5/6 to 86th Street and enter from the Fifth Avenue steps
- Pick up a map at the Great Hall desk; the instrument galleries are easy to miss
- Free with general admission, pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents
- Lighting is deliberately low to protect wood and gut strings
- Fully accessible and elevator-served
- Especially rewarding for musicians and instrument-makers
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Common questions
Is it included with admission?
Yes. All Met exhibitions are free with Museum admission.
When does it close?
September 27, 2026.
Are there instruments you can hear?
The Met typically pairs instrument displays with recordings and audio guide stops. Check the audio guide when you arrive.
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