Destinations: Sound And Vision
August 1, 2006
Janis opens a small hatch at the front of the instrument and flips a switch. The overhead lights dim, the lumpy green and purple carpeting underfoot (designed to look and feel like a field of blooming clover) fades away, and a mechanical rendition of "Ode to Joy" takes over. The bellows of two accordions mounted to the front of the wooden casing squeeze in and out by themselves. The sound may approximate that of a symphony, but the ambience is something less than philharmonic when the spectators are watching a machine rather than an ensemble of accomplished musicians. People do not look calm or moved. There are blank stares, wrinkled brows, and even some frowns, as wives stay close to their stationary husbands.
More than collecting and restoring old cars, Nethercutt committed his life to preserving the past for future generations. San Sylmar serves as his time machine, and you will not find anything quite like it. Free tours of San Sylmar run twice daily Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are required. The museum employs a live organist for bimonthly concerts. Check concert schedule online for dates and times.
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