Just a few days ago I was asked by a new mechanical music machine enthusiast on what is the best way to see mechanical music collections and how to meet new people that enjoy this hobby? My answer to this question was to join an organization such as MBSI and AMICA.
Now you might ask what are the benefits? Well, here are my answers to those questions.
One is that you will instantly be connected to a vast network of people from all over the world! Joining one of these groups will instantly connect you with hundreds of different people in the mechanical music world. Once you get your membership you will gain access to the directory with contact information to all of the different members from around the world. This is the chance to reach out and connect with various collectors, museums and other enthusiasts.
Some of my fondest memories from joining was getting to meet other enthusiasts whom I would never have met otherwise. Some of these enthusiasts I can happily say have become lifelong friends.
The second reason is that they visit many collections all over the world. From private collections to public museums and spaces that feature mechanical music machines.
While these organizations do tour public spaces, they often visit many collections that are private. Some of these collections are very diverse and offer a glimpse of many rare and unique pieces that are not available to the general public to see. This alone is a very good reason to consider joining as some of the pieces featured in certain private collections are some of the only known examples known to exist and they can’t be viewed in any other place.
Through these groups I have seen many beautiful pieces over the years at private individual collector’s houses to behind the scenes tours of museums and tourist attractions. Some of these memories are my favorites due to the new perspective of viewing these wonderful places that I wouldn’t get a chance to see otherwise if I was not a member.
My last reason to join one of these organizations is that they are truly fun! I can’t not emphasize or express enough that joining these groups and attending their meetings has been a whole lot of fun! I often look back very fondly at the memories and good times that I have had being a member of these groups and I look forward to continuing my membership for years to come.
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I invite you to explore the many groups and organizations available associated with mechanical music machines and choose one that is the best fit for you. Take your next step into the marvelous world of mechanical music by joining one of these fun-filled groups today to enjoy the many fabulous benefits available to members.
Dyan N. Hallman
