British Music Experience opens its doors

The British Music Experience opened today - 9 March - at The O2 in London, with the Mayor Of London Boris Johnson marking the opening by rocking out on a Slingerland drum kit.

BME is a permanent high-tech interactive exhibition celebrating the rich history of British popular music. Occupying over 22,000 square feet on the top floor of The O2 bubble, it goes big on audio-visual technology alongside over 500 pieces of memorabilia, including a smashed, ex-Pete Townshend Les Paul Goldtop.

Of most interest to musicians is the Gibson Interactive Studio, where visitors can get their hands on Gibson and Epiphone guitars, Slingerland drums and Wurlitzer digital pianos, supported with extensive audio visual guest lessons and tuition materials.

Artists including KT Tunstall, The Magic Numbers and Amy Macdonald show you how to play some of their famous tracks, plus there's a vocal booth in association with Sennheiser for the budding singers in attendance.

Visitors to the BME can take advantage of the exhibition's RFID technology, where your 'Smarticket' acts as a trigger for various AV materials. Visitors can then register for additional information and free downloads.

Entry to the BME is £15 for adults, £12 for children and concessions. For full information on the BME, including opening times and ticket availability, visit www.britishmusicexperience.com.