The £15 million lottery-funded project officially launched in March 1999 and was envisaged as a celebration of contemporary music and culture, with exhibits including instruments and outfits from the careers of legendary acts.
But the place on Paternoster Row struggled to attract enough visitors, becoming a high-profile failure – after its closure as a museum in July 2000 it was used as a venue for hire before the distinctive building, formed of stainless steel-coated ‘drums’, was turned into Sheffield Hallam University’s students’ union.
Enjoy a virtual trip to the long-gone museum by taking a look at these pictures.
Enjoy a virtual trip to the long-gone museum by taking a look at these pictures.
5. Stars together
Artist Joanne Shaw with one of her pictures at the centre in March 2000. Photo: JPIMedia
6. World of sound
A young visitor looks and listens on the last day of opening in 2000. Photo: JPIMedia
8. A decent turnout
Children take the opportunity to play in the centre on the museum's final day of opening. Photo: JPIMedia