Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Wynn Macau Croiffle and Cruffin afternoon tea outdoors2
    Win an Exquisite Afternoon Tea Set at Café Esplanada
    Giveaways
    Macau Lifestyle Media - The St. Regis Macao - The St. Regis Bar - Jack's Club poster
    The Macallan Jack’s Club Jazz Experience at The St. Regis Bar
    Events & Promotions
    MGM Food Chinese New Year 2022
    Weekender: Welcome the Year of the Tiger, Visit Exhibitions & Much More
    Macau Weekend
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    Baked Pork Chop Rice rossio mgm macau copy
    Eight Must-Try Dishes at MGM MACAU You Don’t Want to Miss
    Dining
    cafe esplanada wynn macau croiffle
    The Variations Of French Croissant At Wynn Macau
    Dining
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau Lifestyle Macallan 12 MAC_2018_DC12_NEAT_Lifestyle_Photo_RGB
    Whisky Review: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
    steve-mccurry
    The Best of Two Worlds: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
    Old Postcard circa 1900 from Macau Antique Postcards by Joao Loureiro
    Bela Vista Hotel: From Lavish Hotel to Wartime Refuge
    Culture
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Wayuu Bag Macau
    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level
    Culture
    Longines Master Collection Now Shines in Macau
    Longines Master Moonphase Now Shines in Macau
    Jewelry & Watches
    Clara Brito on a Fashion Shoot
    Clara Brito: Taking Action Through Fashion
    Fashion
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau city
    A Stopover Guide: 24 Hours in Macau
    Travel
    Kenji Rukkit Gus graffiti street art outloud festival praca ponte e horta art one day macau
    One Day in Macau: Art Itinerary
    Arts
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    Grand Hyatt HK_French GourMay Staycation (3)
    French GourMay at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Offers a Bespoke Culinary Trip to France
    Dining
    The Upper House Salisterra Main Dining Room
    Salisterra Showcases Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine at The Upper House Hong Kong
    Dining
    Artist Wu Yi – Tang Contemporary gallery- Macau Lifestyle WY1
    Wu Yi: A Painter’s Painter
    Artist Spotlight
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Arts
by Ksenia Kuzmina

Sound of Century, Macau: Asia’s Largest Private Collection of Musical Antiques

sound of century museum jukebox macau

While some museums and exhibitions invest in advertising and trying to increase their audience as much as possible, others prefer to stay hidden and only show their artifacts to those who specifically search for them. Among the list of quirky Macau museums is Sound of the Century, The Museum of Vintage Sound Machines. Showcasing the most extensive private Asian collection of antique sound machines and other peculiarities, this museum is a must-visit if you like music and history. Read on to learn why!

History

Every piece of the collection belongs to one man, Mr. Henry Chen. Around 30 years ago, he emigrated to Canada, where he developed a passion for antiques. Slowly, he started building up his collection finding new treasures on antique fares and actions. All the objects were stored in his basement. When the scale of passion exceeded the size of the storage room, Mr. Chen started moving his gramophones to Macau, creating what he calls his toy room. Since then, he comes back to North America now and then to acquire new collectibles.

sound pf century museum artefacts

How to get there

To visit Sound of the Century, guests must call or email in advance and schedule a tour. On the day of your visit, head to Rua das Estalagens, the street of many electronic shops. Then, find Tai Peng Electronics & Appliances. Get inside and tell the shop attendants why you are there. Accordingly, they will make a call for someone to come and meet you for an exciting museum tour. 

The museum itself is on the shop’s second floor. Just pass through washing machines and other domestic appliances, go up a set of stairs, and you will enter one of Macau’s hidden gems. At first, the collection doesn’t seem that large. However, the Sound of the Century collections includes more than 300 items. Most of them are on the upper floor, and that’s where your guide will escort you first. 

Also read: Overlooked Landmarks in Macau: What to See After Senado Square & the Ruins of St. Paul’s

gramophone sound of century museum macau

Music antiques 

Once there, it’s hard not to sigh in awe. The army of gramophones, phonographs, and music boxes all lined up in the large space to tell the story of the dawn of the music industry. Only then will you realize why you can’t just walk into the museum–without a proper tour guide that will show you the most peculiar pieces, the visit wouldn’t be that impressive and memorable. Moreover, your guide will play some tunes, some of which are more than a century old. Notably, almost all of the music machines here are fully functional, with the maintenance taken care of in-house.

The oldest objects at Sound of the Century are the music boxes, mechanical instruments with a rotating cylinder or disk. Among them are smaller wooden boxes with metal disks like Regina and more sizable collectibles such as the antique mandolin cylinder music box by BA Bremond, both created circa 1894. A hand-cranked paper roll organette will amuse you with a slow tune that transports you right into a European 19th-century street market.  

sound of century museum dolls

Gramophones and dolls 

What dominates Sound of Century, Macau are the numerous gramophones. Only your guide or an antique nerd will be able to explain how exactly they are different and why every one of them is unique. Moreover, he’ll be happy to play some of them proving their excellent condition. 

While you listen to the sound of the old times, you may notice a couple of dolls sitting by the wall. These are not simple toys. Instead, they also have music cylinders inside and can play lullabies. Interestingly enough, their hair is made of natural human hair–indeed nightmare material. However, our guide reassured us, the museum is not haunted by any dolls or other paranormal habitants.  

A glass stand among the classic gramophones showcases a rare exhibit of Chinese American phonographs, vinyl, and cylinders. Cantonese opera and traditional 1930s songs were recorded in China and brought back to the US, with only 100 cylinders per series. So imagine how rare they are! Hence, the museum keepers tend to consider them the most valuable in the collection. 

sound of century museum cylinders

Electronics and laundry machines

When all the gramophones are inspected, it’s time to see the other objects on the lower floor. Here you will find a smaller but rather diverse exhibition of artifacts related to music and whatnot. Mr. Chen used to be a radio technician, and his love for vintage radios is reflected in the collectibles he had brought back from Canada. Besides, this room hosts massive jukeboxes from the rock’n’roll era, heavy century-old cashiers made of copper, wooden laundry machines, and more.

Also read: Macau’s Quirkiest Museums


Opening hours: Open by appointment, closed on Saturday and Sunday

How much: MOP $50

Museum of Vintage Sound Machines 13-15 Rua das Estalagens, 2.o andar, Macau (Tai Peng Electronics & Appliances), +853 2892 1389, www.tai-peng.com

Photo credit: Ksenia Kuzmina

Tags

  • macau museums
  • sound of century
  • sound of century museum macau

Related Posts

Camoes Garden in Macau Typhoon tips
Local Knowledge

Typhoon Tips: We Can Be Prepared

Macau Canidrome Entrance Old Photo
Culture

Macau Yat Yuen Canidrome: Entertainment of Yesteryear

Wayuu Bag Macau
Culture

Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

Minchi Marmitas Come Macau
Culture

Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

Trending Posts

Culture, Local Knowledge, Style

Collectore: Macau’s Ultimate Vintage Shop

Macau Fencing class
Family, Local Knowledge

Here Comes the Sun: Summer Activities for Kids in Macau

Asian Art Collectives
Arts

Asian Art Collectives You Need to Know About

Dining, Restaurants

Voyages by Alain Ducasse: A Visit to a French Bistro

  • Editor's Picks

    ladies night macau Bars

    Where My Ladies At: The Best Ladies’ Night Offers in Macau

    From free-flow champagne to free Prosecco bottles, check our list of the best ladies’ night offers in Macau.

    Salvador Dali Alice in Wonderland Macau Lifestyle hidden artwork Macau Arts

    Art Masterpieces in Macau You Did Not Know Existed

    Some pieces of art are in the most prominent spots, but there are some artwork that remain hidden in Macau. Here’s where you can find them!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    Wayuu Bag Macau Culture

    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

    Macau is a small city, but it sure has a lot of new businesses popping up. We rounded up a list of cool businesses to check out and support!

    start line photo Lifestyle

    Top Running Routes in Macau

    Make the effort to get up 30 minutes earlier from tomorrow onwards and check out any of these stunning running routes in Macau.

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Flora Garden playground Family

    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau

    Macau is full of parks and leisure areas that feature some amazing play areas. Here’s a list of the best playgrounds in Macau for the tykes!

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    sound-of-century-vintage-sound-machines-museum Arts

    Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

    When art and history collections are inspected, it’s time to learn things that even locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums.

    sw-steakhouse-barcounter-cocktails-macau-wynn-palace Bars

    SW Steakhouse Bar at Wynn Palace: Home of Barrel-Aged Cocktails

    Known as one of the best restaurants for juicy prime cuts, SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace also features a bar with must-try cocktails.

    Negroni bar patua mgm cotai macau lifestyle Bars

    Where to Have an Unforgettable Negroni in Macau

    Check our list of the best bars in Macau that serve the Italian bitter-sweet cocktail, Negroni, from classic recipes to original twists!

    elysee bakery croissants macau Cafes

    Where to Find the Best Croissants in Macau

    Is there a more popular and beloved French pastry than the almighty croissant? We doubled our fitness hours and tried dozens of pastries to come up with the list of the best croissants in Macau!

    sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries Dining

    A Tour of Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

    Every tourist coming to Macau can make a fast conclusion that cookies and pastries here are held in high regard. Where do you start, and what do you eat? To get acquainted with a curious word of local sweets, check our guide to the Chinese pastries in Macau.

    The Manor Stories of the Sea Seventh Chapter Sea Urchin, fusilli Gentile red mullet bottarga, arugula ginger emulsion Dining

    Where to Have the Best Pasta in Macau

    If you’re craving for Italian-style pasta, here’re the ones that have tickled our taste buds and discover the varieties in Macau!

    Santa Rosa de Lima Culture

    Santa Rosa de Lima: Convent Turned School

    Santa Rosa de Lima is a well-known school in Macau, but did you know what it was in the 19th century? Discover more about this place here!

    Signature cocktail - Patuá mgm cotai macau Bars

    Bar Patuá at MGM Macau: Language of Mixology

    Whether it is cool cocktails, stunning design, or engaging conversations with a bartender, Bar Patuá has a lot to offer. Learn more in our review!

    girl with dog and cocktail cafe Cafes

    Best Pet Friendly Cafes in Macau

    Unwilling to leave your fur child behind while you stroll the streets of Macau? Here are pet-friendly cafes in Macau for you to bring your furry friend to!

    hac sa beach coloane Picnic spot Macau Family

    Great Picnic Spots in Macau

    Picnics are the best way to enjoy nature, good company and food. Here’re the best picnic spots in Macau for your friends and family to enjoy!

    Jetfoil TurboJET Urzela Culture

    Macau Ferries: Travelling To & From Hong Kong Since the 1950s

    Did you know that Jetfoils were originally for the military? Find out more about these Macau ferries that travel between Hong Kong and Macau!

    Korlouyeah Interview Feature Photo Artist Spotlight

    Korlouyeah: Photographing Macau’s Motions & Emotions

    Korlouyeah is a local web editor who photographs Macau and its people. We sat down with the artist to know more about his creative eye.

    Tsung I Macau Culture

    Jao Tsung-I: Prominent Sinologist & Literature Researcher in Macau

    Jao Tsung-I was a key figure in the study of ancient literature and history, as well as a prolific Chinese calligraphy artist.

    LP World Sketches Luisa People

    Sketching the World Around Her: Luísa Petiz of LP World Sketches

    Find out how Macau charmed Luísa Petiz and inspired her to sketch its beauty along with updates on exhibitions of her works!

    63c4f00b-ca84-4eda-8f54-1fc5b633bee6_l Architecture

    Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

    Have you ever wondered about Tap Seac Square, its history, and what used to be there? Find out more about its history and right here!

    Minchi Marmitas Come Macau Culture

    Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

    Marmitas.Come is a local shop specializing in authentic Portuguese food for takeaway. Read on and find out their story and future plans!

    Camões Bust in Grotto Culture

    The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

    Portuguese poet Camões is well-known in Macau. But do you know why? We tell you some interesting facts about the author’s life!

    macau tourist guide Local Knowledge

    A Quick Guide for First Timers to Macau

    Is it your first time in Macau? Check out our guide for the essential things to know, planning tips, directions, and places to visit!

    beijing memory li xiao feng mandarin oriental macau art Arts

    Art at Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Porcelain Dresses & Contemporary Glass Installations

    Read on to see how Mandarin Oriental, Macau, highlights its style and identity with art and design masterpieces by different artists.  

    fit in the box healthy meals macau Dining

    Best Places for a Healthy Meal in Macau

    Eating smart is the best way to achieve a healthier outlook. These healthy food spots in Macau would make any meatless Monday much easier!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2022 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!