Phoenix is about to host a once-in-a-lifetime cultural treasure. On November 6, 2026, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) opens Unearthed Musical Masterpieces from the Southern Kingdoms of Ancient China, a landmark exhibition featuring more than 70 musical instruments and associated objects excavated from archaeological sites over two thousand years old.
Organized by MIM together with the Hubei Provincial Museum, the exhibition includes more than 40 ancient Chinese artifacts never before displayed in the United States, including 10 Grade One National Cultural Relics — China’s highest designation for national treasures, rarely seen outside of China.
Buried for millennia alongside rulers and nobility, these extraordinary instruments reveal the remarkable musical achievements of the ancient southern kingdoms of China. The exhibition traces the development of musical culture from the Neolithic period to the pinnacle of court music, represented by the exceptional musical legacy of the Zeng and Chu states.
Visitors can also admire ceramic and stone artifacts depicting musicians, a suit of armor and helmet, a bronze sword, and jade pendants, alongside excavation footage and performance videos that bring these ancient musical traditions back to life.
To celebrate the opening, MIM is hosting a three-day Signature Event on November 6, 7, and 8 with family-friendly activities, curator talks, instrument demonstrations, and live music — the perfect plan for the whole family.
The Musical Instrument Museum is located at 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard in Phoenix (corner of Tatum and Mayo Boulevards, just south of Loop 101). For details, visit MIM.org.
Photo: Musical Instrument Museum
