V & E Simonetti Historic Tuba Collection
Phone: (919) 402-0864
One of Durham’s more unique museums is the V & E Simonetti Tuba Collection, one of the largest private collections of tubas in the world! It features tubas, information and ephemera, spanning more than 175 years. While you can see the tuba collection for free, appointments are required.
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Tuesday: 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Map
Google Rating
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This is a hidden gem of North Carolina (and really the United States). This is a must-visit for tuba or low brass musicians. Vincent (who conducts each tour) was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the tuba and the changes the tuba has undergone, including the differences by country, manufacturer, etc.
Absolutely breathtaking to see so many tubas in one place, make sure you schedule a tour and check this place out! The pictures do not do it justice. -
Having lived in the area for years, I finally made a reservation to see this place and I'm so glad I did. I thought it would be a neat collection to walk through and see, but I had no idea that the owner would take the time to walk us through and give us the history and details of the tubas! He is very knowledgeable about his very niche collection. I learned a lot and it was very cool to see someone so passionate about what they do. Definitely a worthwhile stop!
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I loved every minute of the tour and would recommend coming here to anyone! The free keychain was an amazing touch so that I could take some of the museum home with me. I play bassoon and it was completely captivating to see the similarities in the earlier tubas to the bassoon. Seeing such an amazing serpent horn in person is something I’ll always be able to brag about to my musician friends too. :)
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Absolutely fascinating! Vince is incredibly passionate and knows more about tubas than probably anyone else on earth. We aren't even tuba players, and we loved the tour. Easily one of the best museum experiences we've ever had, at one of the most unique establishments we've ever seen. Absolutely 10/10 recommend.
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I'll be honest, when my wife said she wanted to go to a tuba museum and that a weekend visit was $25 I was pretty sure I was going to HATE it. Boy oh boy did I eat my words! I was expecting to be let into a room full of instruments and left to just look at them on my own. Instead Vincent welcomed us in and proceeded to give us the best tour I may have had anywhere! He's incredibly knowledgeable, and makes learning about these instruments engaging and very interesting. If you have any interest in musical instruments, history or just like the show "How It's Made" you'll love this museum!
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