Queen Studio Experience | Montreux

The Queen Studio Experience is a unique museum and interactive exhibition dedicated to the legendary British rock band Queen. Located in Montreux, Switzerland, this experience celebrates the band’s legacy, particularly its close connection with the town and the Montreux Jazz Festival, where the band recorded parts of their iconic album Made in Heaven.

Key Features of the Queen Studio Experience

1. Location and Historical Significance

• The Queen Studio Experience is housed in Mountain Studios, the recording studio where Queen recorded many of their most famous tracks, including portions of their final album Made in Heaven.
• Mountain Studios was originally founded in 1971 by the band’s producer Tracy and became Queen’s primary recording location during the late 1970s and 1980s.
• Queen's association with Montreux goes back to 1978 when they first started recording at Mountain Studios, and the band remained closely tied to the region for much of their later career. The band’s lead guitarist, Brian May, and other members have spoken fondly of Montreux and its influence on their music.

2. The Queen Memorabilia Collection

• The exhibition offers a vast collection of Queen memorabilia, showcasing instruments, wardrobe items, personal items, and rare documents related to the band’s musical journey.
• Visitors can view famous items, such as Freddie Mercury’s costumes, including the iconic yellow jacket and flared pants, and Brian May’s custom-made guitars.
• The exhibition also features original handwritten lyrics, albums, and trophies, offering a fascinating look at the creative process behind Queen’s music.

3. Interactive Exhibits

• The Queen Studio Experience is not just a traditional museum but also an interactive experience where visitors can explore the band’s music and history in a hands-on way.
• Guests can learn about the band’s recording techniques, including how they used the unique Mountain Studios to craft their signature sound. The studio still contains much of the original recording equipment that was used during Queen’s time there, and visitors can interact with these pieces of equipment to understand the recording process.
• Interactive screens allow visitors to listen to audio tracks, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the band, offering a deeper insight into the making of some of their most famous albums.

4. Music and Video Displays

• A highlight of the Queen Studio Experience is the multimedia section, where visitors can watch videos of the band’s performances, interviews, and special moments from their career. The videos are a mix of live footage, interviews, and rare clips, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at Queen’s journey.
• There are also special displays dedicated to Freddie Mercury’s performances and his larger-than-life persona, reflecting his impact on the music world.

5. Special Tribute to Freddie Mercury

• Freddie Mercury, Queen’s iconic lead singer, is at the heart of the experience. A special section is dedicated to his life and legacy, showcasing his music, fashion, and his influence on pop culture.
• The tribute includes personal items of Freddie Mercury, such as clothing, handwritten notes, and photos, as well as interactive elements highlighting his vocal range and unique stage presence.
• There are also features dedicated to Queen’s Live Aid performance and Mercury’s legacy as one of the greatest frontmen in rock history.

6. Recording Studio Atmosphere

• For fans who are curious about how Queen created their sound, the exhibition allows visitors to step into the atmosphere of a recording studio. Guests can explore areas of Mountain Studios, recreated with the original furniture and recording tools used by the band.
• A significant part of the experience is the reproduction of the studio where Queen recorded. Visitors can witness how the band crafted songs, including some of their most famous tracks such as "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Are the Champions."
• The sound design within the studio gives visitors an immersive experience, allowing them to hear the raw versions of tracks and how they evolved.

7. Montreux and Queen’s Legacy

• Montreux holds a special place in Queen’s history, and the museum reflects that connection. The Montreux Jazz Festival played a major role in the band’s history, and Queen fans can learn more about the band’s relationship with the festival, where they performed and recorded for many years.
• Queen fans can also visit the Freddie Mercury Memorial, located on the Montreux lakeside, which features a bronze statue of Freddie Mercury. The statue was erected in 1996, a few years after his death, to commemorate his incredible contributions to music.

8. Limited Edition and Exclusive Items

• The Queen Studio Experience also features an exclusive gift shop where fans can purchase unique merchandise, including limited edition items such as vinyl records, memorabilia, books, and art related to Queen.
• These items serve as perfect keepsakes for visitors wishing to take a piece of Queen’s legacy home.

Conclusion

The Queen Studio Experience in Montreux is a must-visit for any fan of the band, offering a rare and personal look into their musical journey. With its interactive exhibits, historical memorabilia, and tribute to Freddie Mercury, it provides a unique and immersive experience that goes beyond the typical museum visit. Whether you’re an avid Queen fan or simply curious about the band’s impact on music history, this studio experience offers a deep connection to the legacy of one of rock's most influential bands.