We’ve wanted to go to the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix for years and and not quite got around to it. So just before we left the area we did make it and luckily for us, it coincided with a new Exhibit called Acoustic America, Iconic Guitars, Mandolins, and Banjos! What a treat! The entire museum by itself is a ‘bucket list’ thing to do if ever in the area. It’s impossible to even begin to describe the breadth of the collections of instruments from all over the world contained here, and throw in the Acoustic America exhibit … wow, we were just blown away. LOL, we thought we’d take a couple of hours and be fine … we could have spent a couple of DAYS in this place … and probably still missed things! P.S. – a special shout out to two Maryland companies that were represented well as part of the exhibits, PRS Guitars, and Pearl Works!

12 fret dreadnought owned by Peter Yarrow of Peter Paul and Mary, with set list still taped to the top.

This 12 string was owned and played by Paul Stookey of Peter Paul and Mary.

Although not a Baltimore native, Michael Hedges studied at Peabody Institute and spent several years in the Baltimore area. This is his harp guitar he used frequently. Mike followed him for years and he is one of Mike’s favorite guitar players.

A couple of PRS guitar examples, the sunburst is owned by Al DiMeola, the blond is owned by Carlos Santana, both custom made by Paul Reed Smith himself.

The Pearl Works display, which includes a PRS.

A special guitar, a 1975 Martin D-28, played by Elvis Presley on his final live performance in 1977.

A few more items of interest, and a couple of Candi and Mike just playin’ around!