The Museo de la Marimba presents its visitors with an informative journey through the history of marimba in Chiapas. Discover how the marimba landed in Mexico, learn about famous musicians and watch live performances. The Museo de la Marimba features five exhibition halls, an audiovisual salon and an instrument workshop.
The marimba is a xylophone-like percussion instrument, which consists of wooden bars and resonator pipes of varying lengths that hang underneath. The common belief is that the earliest examples of this instrument originated in Asia and Africa. Immigrants from the Bantu-speaking regions of central and southern Africa are thought to have introduced the marimba to Mexico. Today learn about this key element of folkloric musical culture in Chiapas as well as the Oaxaca and Tabasco states.
Admire the craftsmanship of instrument engineers in the exhibition of marimbas. The oldest piece dates back to 1917. It includes six splints and is made from a rustic wood. Look for a crescent-shaped instrument and one made by the acclaimed marimba player Abelardo Vleeschower. Also on display is a unique marimba that produces the Sonido 13, which is a microtonal music theory invented by the composer Julián Carillo.
Browse photographs of some of Mexico’s most famous marimba musicians and bands along with examples of the tools used by the craftsmen. Listen to excerpts of songs performed by various Mexican marimbists. Try playing a song on the giant walk-on keyboard as you are guided by a monitor.
Finish your visit by watching live performances by talented musicians. Marvel as they hold two mallets in each hand and play four notes simultaneously. Introductory lessons are also offered.
Find the museum about a 10-minute walk west of Plaza Civica. It is adjacent to Marimba Park. After touring the museum, go to the park to listen to more live music and join in the communal dancing. Marimba bands perform for free every evening at the park’s bandstand.
The Museo de la Marimba is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. Enter for free on Sunday.
