Urgent Fundraiser: The Musical Museum needs YOU!

You can make a difference by donating today to The Musical Museum - we urgently need your help to survive.

The Musical Museum was established 60 years ago - sadly, this may be our last year unless we're able to raise funds to continue operating; so to mark our 60th Anniversary we're aiming to raise at least £60,000.

We have shared our story story of how people have captured and listened to music over the last four centuries with thousands of visitors, old and young alike, with guided tours tours of the amazing collection spanning tiny music boxes to the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ in our concert hall. Our amazing volunteers go above and beyond to deliver an educational, interesting, memorable and fun experience - we're proud of our 5-star rating on TripAdvisor which makes the Musical Museum one of the top-rated attractions in Greater London (and the #1 "thing to do" in Brentford!).

5 years ago, our trustees set out a plan which aimed to secure the long-term wellbeing of the Museum. Sadly, our efforts were interrupted by the Covid pandemic when we were forced to completely close to the public for the first time in half a century. Although we have a refreshed experience and are receiving more visitors and events than ever in our history, the crisis took a deep toll on our financial health, and depleted the few reserves we had. Costs to operate the building (even at minimal levels) have also more than doubled - far beyond our plans and expectations, and so the Museum is in desperate need of funding. Without additional support, the Museum could close permanently this year (2024).

The Musical Museum is a registered UK charity, and has always depended on the generous support of our visitors and friends to "top up" the gap in our income. We're appealing directly to them, and the public at large, to preserve this wonderful collection and welcoming space for future generations; as without your support the Museum will have to close before we can realise our plan to become fully sustainable.

Please help if you can.

Q&A

Q: Why don't you apply for a government or Heritage Lottery grant?

A: The Musical Museum has been successful in securing funding for many special projects, including the construction of our building as well as generous individual donations and bequests towards the upkeep of instruments. These are incredibly thoughtful and very much appreciated - at the same time, they do not address the underlying shortfall in operating income.

Q: Could you just cut back further on staff and expenses?

A: The Museum has cut costs significantly, while retaining the essential services needed to be open to the public. Our Directors, Trustees and volunteers have always been unpaid, and all outgoing costs are kept under constant review. Some commitments are on long-term contracts, but we are working with our suppliers to find suitable ways to reduce or exit these wherever possible.

Q: How will the money from this GoFundMe campaign be spent?

A: We will use funds raised here on an ongoing basis to help keep the Museum afloat, contributing towards the cost of critical and core operating expenses of our charity, such as lighting, heating and essential building maintenance. There is no specific project (such as an instrument to conserve) - the aim of this campaign is simply survival, to allow the Museum to continue to operate while we strive to move the Museum into sustainable financial health.

Q: Why should the Museum be saved?

A: The Musical Museum is more than just a fun, educational and diverse collection of self-playing instruments, inventions and music rolls. The venue also functions as a valuable hub for the local community - hosting social events for the elderly, such as Hounslow's Warm Spaces and Well Being initiatives and operating the box office for the Older People’s Festival, it's the local polling centre, hosts Bollywood Dancing and Children's Theatre classes, showcases local musical and artistic talent, and more.

Q: So what difference would my help make?

A: Every contribution, no matter the size, will receive our heartfelt thanks and gratitude. If we're able to sustain the Museum through the changes required, we will be able to preserve the collection for the nation, and the building as an important community hub. Our trajectory is positive, but it will take time to achieve. Your support will help give the Museum's team of amazing volunteers every possible chance to save it.

Thank you for your kindness and support.