Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The MuPop finds its roots in the museum of Montluçon, created in 1959 in the castle of the Dukes of Bourbon. At the generalist origin, he gradually specializes in traditional instruments, especially old ones, perceived as a local identity symbol by Jean Favier, his designer. During the 1960-1970s, the collection was enriched by donations and acquisitions, transforming the museum into a space dedicated to popular rural music, including old, bagpipes and later electric guitars.

In 1993, the acquisition of Jean-Michel Renard's bagpipe collection expanded the musical field towards regional traditions. Then, in 1997, the exhibition Guitars, guitarists, electric bassists marked a turning point towards amplified music, extending the coverage of the 19th century museum to rock. Faced with the growth of collections (3,500 objects), the MuPop project is emerging to offer a space of 3,300 m2, combining conservation and immersive experience, financed by the State, the Region and local authorities.

Inaugurated in the former Méchain and Charnisay mansions, the MuPop embodies a dialogue between heritage and modernity. The Hotel Charnisay, restored in its original spirit, contrasts with the preserved facade of the Hotel Méchain, integrated with a contemporary bronze metal structure. This architectural party, signed Philippe Tixier, symbolizes the fusion of traditional and contemporary music. The museum offers a unique sensory approach: a mobile listening system (SEM) allows visitors to compose their sound path among 150 listening points and 8 hours of music.

The innovation of the MuPop also lies in its interactive museum, with five playful touch screens and accessible instruments. The collections, the most important in France for electric guitars, old guitars and bagpipes, illustrate the diversity of popular music, from swing to jazz and rock. Ported by Montluçon Community, the museum asserts itself as a living place, where architecture and technology serve as a free and personal exploration of musical culture.

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