On November 6, 2026, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix will open Unearthed Musical Masterpieces from the Southern Kingdoms of Ancient China, a landmark special exhibition presenting an unprecedented collection of more than 70 musical instruments and associated objects excavated from archaeological sites more than two thousand years old.
Organized by MIM and the Hubei Provincial Museum under the guidance of China’s National Cultural Heritage Administration, the exhibition features more than 40 ancient Chinese artifacts on display for the first time in the United States — including 10 Grade One National Cultural Relics, China’s highest designation for national treasures, rarely seen outside of China. Highlights include the magnificent Bo bell of Marquis Qiu of Zeng (c. 650 BCE), the largest bell in the largest known set of bells from the Spring and Autumn period.
Tracing the development of musical culture in ancient China from the Neolithic period to the pinnacle of court music, this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition invites guests into a richly preserved musical world revealed through stunning archaeological discoveries. Mark your calendars — Phoenix is the place to hear history!
Photo: Musical Instrument Museum
