Jal Mahal | Jaipur

The National Museum of Music is a cultural institution located in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

It houses a collection of musical instruments and artifacts from Burkina Faso's diverse ethnic groups.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a single-story structure constructed primarily from concrete and painted in a neutral, light beige color. It features a flat roof and a series of rectangular windows. The main entrance is marked by a simple, dark-colored wooden door. The interior exhibition space is organized into distinct rooms, each dedicated to different instrument families or cultural regions.

Location & Access Logistics

The National Museum of Music is situated in the central district of Ouagadougou. It is approximately 2 kilometers south of the Place de la Nation, the city's main square. Access is via Avenue de l'Indépendance, turning onto Rue 12.15. Limited street parking is available directly in front of the museum. Public transport options include local bus lines that service Avenue de l'Indépendance; disembark at the "Musée National" stop.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum building was constructed in the late 1980s as part of a government initiative to preserve and promote Burkina Faso's cultural heritage. It was designed by local architects with the primary purpose of serving as a repository for traditional musical instruments. The site itself is part of the urban landscape of Ouagadougou, a savanna region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe a wide array of traditional instruments, including various types of stringed instruments (e.g., the kora), percussion instruments (e.g., djembes, balafons), and wind instruments. Demonstrations of instrument playing are occasionally scheduled, typically on weekends. Informational panels provide details on the origin and use of each artifact.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shaded areas are present in the immediate vicinity of the entrance. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally reliable within the museum premises. No on-site food vendors are present, but small eateries and shops are located within a 500-meter radius.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is best visited during the cooler months, from November to February, to avoid the peak heat of the dry season. Mid-morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) offers more comfortable temperatures for exploring the exhibits. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable artifact within the collection is a balafon said to have belonged to a legendary griot whose music could influence the weather. While unverified, the legend highlights the cultural significance attributed to these instruments.

Nearby Landmarks

• Place de la Nation (2km North)
• Grand Marché (1.5km Northwest)
• Ouagadougou Cathedral (2.5km North)
• National Museum of Burkina Faso (1.8km North)