The Harmonium Museum will definitively cease to exist. The current administration has thrown in the towel. The collection, which consists of more than 200 instruments, will be offered to other museums.
The existence of the museum has been in question since the end of 2021. The current accommodation is currently located at the Veenpark in Barger-Compascuum. But that park is sailing a new course and the museum no longer fits the new path.
Since then, the board has been diligently looking for a new location. The plan was also expanded: in addition to a museum, the new accommodation would also house a concert venue and a music school.
It was hoped for a financial contribution from the municipality for the move, but Emmen only granted half of the requested amount (17,000 instead of 34,000 euros). An additional setback is the decision to further close the subsidy tap from 2025 (11,500 euros per year).
The foundation is then considered to be able to fend for itself financially.
According to board member Koos Salomons, that double downer has meant the final blow. “The news that the subsidy is ending closed the door”, said a very disappointed Salomons. “Without that money, we cannot possibly keep the museum in the air. Or we have to set the entrance fee at 30 euros. Which of course is not possible.”
The museum was also advised to ask other funds and the province for resources. But these are complicated processes, says Salomons. “It can only be carried out by experts and they cost money. My plan would only cost 30 cents per inhabitant of the municipality of Emmen.”
The board therefore saw no way out and decided to stop. “It hurts very much.”
The 200 musical instruments are currently still in storage at the Veenpark. The collection is offered to other museums. “The masterpieces will probably find a place elsewhere.” The question is what will happen to the remainder. “Perhaps they will be destroyed.”
A number of board members have decided to continue with the plan for a joint music school. An initiative that Salomons warmly encourages from a distance. He is no longer a member of the board himself. “The idea is to house private teachers, but also orchestras and choirs in a common place.”
A plan that does not require a subsidy, because the intention is to cover the costs by renting out the space. According to Salomons, talks are underway about a location, but it is still too early to announce it.