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EASTER HOLIDAY HOURS
OPEN April 18 and 19
[Regular Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm]
The NMM honors the life and work of Dr. Margaret (Peggy) Downie Banks, Ph.D. - 1950 – 2025
Dr. Banks was hired by then-NMM Director, Dr. Andre Larson, in 1978. Peggy’s commitment to the NMM extended 45 years until retirement in 2023, making her the longest-serving employee in the NMM’s now 52-year history. She served in virtually every role inside the NMM eventually becoming Senior Curator, Associate Director, and Interim Director. She was awarded Professor Emeritus by the University of South Dakota upon retirement in 2023. Even beyond full-time work, Peggy kept an office at the NMM, was working on a project for the Museum, and loved consulting with people in the industry. The NMM garnered its worldwide reputation thanks to the lifelong work of Dr. Banks. Thank you, Peggy!
With the family’s approval, memorial gifts can be directed to the Peggy Banks Memorial Education Fund established at the NMM. Donations can be made online here (Support Us | National Music Museum). Click on the Donate Now button and in the "comments" box at the bottom, enter “Peggy Banks Fund”.
Checks can be sent to:
National Music Museum
414 E. Clark Street
Vermillion, SD 57069
A service will be held to honor Peggy on Sunday, September 14, at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Fellowship Church, 1000 E. Highway 50, in Vermillion, SD.
Click here for more information.
Welcome to the World of
Musical Instruments
THE NEW NMM
WORTH THE WAIT
It's been a while, and we've missed you. But hey! - we couldn't be more excited to see you again at the bigger, better, more magically musical NMM. With brand new facilities in the Lillibridge Wing, a bustling schedule of programming for all interests and ages, and 12 completely reimagined exhibition galleries in the historic Carnegie Library, the NMM is excited to spring back to life as the place to explore, enjoy, and preserve the world of musical instruments.
As of August 2023, the entire first floor of permanent exhibitions is now open!
Featured Objects
The National Music Museum needs YOU.
We rely on the support of people like you.
If you want to help us fulfill our mission of exploring, enjoying, and preserving the world of musical instruments, consider supporting us today: make a donation, become a member, add the NMM to your planned giving; there are ways anyone can lend a hand.
