Museum of Music Technology (ex-EMEAPP) Tour — Harleysville, Pennsylvania

Discover the Museum of Music Technology Tour in Pennsylvania

Step into the evolution of sound itself at the Museum of Music Technology in Harleysville, PA — a world-class museum and research facility dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of electronic musical instruments. This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour takes you inside an active preservation center filled with rare synthesizers, prototype instruments, studio gear, and effects units that defined modern music.

Why it’s special: The Museum of Music Technology is one of the most comprehensive electronic music collections in the world — featuring instruments used by legends like Keith Emerson, Stevie Wonder, and Wendy Carlos. The tour isn’t just about seeing gear; it’s about hearing the story of innovation, sound design, and the technology that revolutionized how music is made.

History/Story of MMT

The Museum of Music Technology is run by EMEAPP, the Electronic Music Education and Preservation Project. EMEAPP is a nonprofit whose mission is to safeguard and preserve the legacy of electronic music technology. The Museum began as a private collection of instruments and recording equipment and has grown into an internationally recognized nonprofit organization. Housed in a secure, climate-controlled facility in Harleysville, EMEAPP preserves everything from early theremins and modular synthesizers to prototype drum machines and analog recording consoles — each piece representing a chapter in music innovation.

What You’ll See & Do on the MMT Tour

• Explore one of the largest collections of vintage synthesizers, keyboards, and electronic instruments in the world
• See rare and historically significant pieces, including custom-built prototypes and artist-owned gear
• Learn how early analog technology evolved into modern digital production
• Discover classic effects, recording consoles, and outboard gear from legendary studios
• Engage with knowledgeable curators and engineers passionate about electronic music history

Hands-On Elements: Observation-based tour with limited interactive demonstrations (by staff only).
Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted throughout the building. 
Souvenirs & Extras: None, but they’re working on it. 

Pricing of the MMT/EMEAPP Tour

General Admission: $50 per person (guided tour)
Students / Educators: Contact the tour operator for group tour pricing

Practical Info for Visiting MMT/EMEAPP

Duration: The standard tour is 2.5-3 hours. Shorter tours are available by request (please contact us before booking)
Format: Guided tour with demonstrations and Q&A
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered by appointment only; select public events throughout the year
Audience: Musicians, sound engineers, producers, educators, and music history fans
Accessibility: Most of the building is wheelchair accessible, a few areas are not. Please contact us for more information. 
Safety & Restrictions: Touching instruments or equipment is not permitted unless guided by staff
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Educational programs for music and STEM students available
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing; music curiosity encouraged
Facilities: Restrooms, parking, and event space
Closures & Downtime: Closed major holidays and during private research sessions

Nearby

• Perkiomen Trail — scenic walking and cycling path

• Mennonite Heritage Center — museum exploring Pennsylvania Dutch history

• Freddy Hill Farms & Creamery — local family attraction with ice cream and mini golf

FAQs About Visiting MMT/EMEAPP

Is MMT open to the public?
Yes — tours can be booked online and must be booked in advance, as the facility operates as both a museum and preservation lab.

Can I play the instruments?
No — due to their historical and technical value, instruments are demonstrated on tours only by MMT staff. We do offer the ability to book time on select instruments: contact us for more information. 

Do you host special events or performances?
Yes — MMT regularly holds private concerts, lectures, and recording sessions featuring vintage gear.

Can schools or universities visit?
Absolutely — educational group tours and workshops are a major part of MMT’s mission.

Is MMT affiliated with any artists or studios?
Yes — MMT houses instruments and recording gear once owned or used by notable musicians, producers, and engineers.