In June, the Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad closed its doors to remodel it’s galleries into an exploration of the history of American music and instrument making from the late 19th century to present day.

“We’ve been here about 12 years now,” says executive director Carolyn Grant, “so we took all of people’s favorite things that we’ve noticed over the past decade and incorporated them into the museum. Those are mainly the interactive [elements], so each area showcases a breakthrough instrument – a mandolin, a drum pedal, a frying pan, a Telecaster – and all the little interactive experiences culminate in the final gallery with a whole a room of musical instruments that people can play.”

The new “global spotlight” exhibit features a touch screen with a spinning globe where you can listen to music from countries around the world, including Mali, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Mexico, Cube, Norway, and China.

A new special exhibitions room rotates themes every six months. The first installation, “Roots of Reeds,” traces the little known origins of reed instruments such as the harmonica, clarinet, and saxophone back to Asia and Persia.

The Museum of Making Music’s August 20 reopening will include live music in the lobby and musicians on hand to help guests with instruments. A special rate of $5 per person goes through the end of the month. Kids 12 and under are free.

Keep an eye on upcoming Blurts for more on the reopening.