For a young woman in her early 20s, Taylor Swift sure has a lot of interests. In addition to her unquestioned musical talent on the stage, Swift plays several instruments, has an extensive knowledge of the history of music, has won numerous awards for her work, and is an avid antiques collector.
Currently, the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix exhibits objects relating to the international and beloved superstar in its Artist Gallery. The exhibition features a look at Swift’s career starting from its humble beginnings. A songwriter and accomplished musician, the exhibition highlights Swift’s early career and her development into the world of songwriting. The artist’s early acoustic guitar and the handwritten lyrics for Swift’s first hit single “Tim McGraw” are on display in the section of the exhibition that focuses on her entry into the music business. Objects relating to today’s contemporary music scene are also on view such as the designer leather cowboy boots and outfits worn in her popular videos. Artifacts relating to Swift’s rise to stardom on the international musical stage connect with longtime fans and new ones, too. In the exhibit are Swift’s Les Paul guitar and ukulele which show the young woman’s ability to transition between various instruments. Her personal appeal and star power is never overshadowed by her designer costumes or stage props, however, those too are on display.
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) was founded by Robert J. Ulrich, former CEO of Target Corporation. An avid collector of African art, Ulrich got the idea for the American museum dedicated to all forms of music and the playing of music after paying a visit to the Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels, Belgium. The MIM provides a unique experience to museum goers of all ages. The galleries focus on music based on geographic areas of the world. For instance, hand-made instruments and their role in the cultures of Africa, Latin America, and Europe are featured. In addition to the display of various musical instruments and information about the context and use of these instruments globally, the museum’s galleries feature advanced state of the art AV technology and high quality sound.
Swift is a model for many young people--follow your dreams, experience lots of different things, and reach for the stars.
Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and internationally syndicated columnist, Dr. Lori Verderame presents antique appraisal events nationwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on Discovery’s hit TV show, Auction Kings. Visit DrLoriV.com, Facebook.com/DoctorLori, or call (888) 431-1010.
