At Seilerstätte 30 in Vienna’s old town, the House of Music turns the science and history of sound into hands-on exhibits. Climb a staircase that plays piano notes, explore how sound works and try conducting a virtual Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. Displays also introduce composers connected with Vienna, including Mozart, Strauss and Beethoven. The mix of listening, experiments and music history suits adults and children, especially families who want an indoor activity with plenty to do. Set aside about three hours to explore at an unhurried pace.
A museum built around sound
The House of Music is in the historic Palais Archduke Carl at Seilerstätte 30, in Vienna’s old town. Opened in 2000, it presents music history and the nature of sound through multimedia displays and interactive installations.
The exhibits range from early musical instruments to classical music and modern sound. They explore how sound is made, how people hear it and how instruments are grouped. Audio recordings and visual displays bring the subjects to life, with material about composers and Vienna’s musical history alongside experiments visitors can try themselves.
Try the instruments and installations
The staircase between floors doubles as a piano: each step plays a note, so walking up or down becomes a short musical experiment. Other hands-on displays invite you to investigate sound and create music using digital tools.
At the Virtual Conductor installation, you can lead a simulated Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra with your gestures. The museum also lets visitors compose music, including a waltz. These activities give children a way to engage with music through play, while adults can test their own timing and coordination.
Classical music and live performances
The museum connects its experiments with the musicians and institutions that shaped Vienna’s musical life. Exhibits introduce composers such as Mozart, Strauss and Beethoven, and a section about the Vienna Philharmonic includes a small auditorium where you can listen to music associated with the orchestra’s New Year’s concert.
Live musical events are also held at the venue. The glass-covered courtyard on the ground floor is used for performances, and small orchestra concerts can add a live element to a visit. Check the current event and ticket information on the House of Music website before planning around a performance.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at the House of Music?
Allow about three hours to explore the museum’s interactive exhibits and music-history displays.
Is the House of Music suitable for children?
Yes. Children can experiment with sound, play the piano staircase and try conducting a virtual orchestra.
Can you conduct the Vienna Philharmonic at the museum?
The Virtual Conductor installation lets you lead a simulated Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra using gestures.
Where is the House of Music in Vienna?
It is at Seilerstätte 30, in Vienna’s old town.
