Music before Columbus: The Collection of Luis Perez opens at the Museum of Ventura County on February 25, exhibiting Ventura-based musician and archaeomusicologist Luis Perez’s collection of Pre-Columbian musical instruments and ritual objects from Mesoamerica. A related exhibit entitled The White Instruments: Recent Creations by Luis Perez, features modern wind and percussion instruments sculpted in clay by Perez. He uses these Pre-Columbian inspired pieces to compose and record contemporary music. Both exhibits run through May 27, 2012.

The opening reception for these exhibits and for Hilos de la Vida/Threads of Life: The Weavers of Teotitlán del Valle is Friday, February 24, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., with musical entertainment by Grupo Amor y Paz. Admission to the reception is $5 for the general public, free for museum members. To RSVP call 805.653.0323 x7.

Music before Columbus provides an introductory glimpse into the pre-Columbian world of music, dance and ritual with detailed information on selected artifacts. In a gallery video, visitors can hear the sounds made by several of the pieces. Perez, who grew up in Mexico City, has devoted himself to extensive research into Pre-Columbian music and mythology, the collection of archaeological artifacts, and the study of living musical traditions in Mexico.

On Sunday, March 11 at 2:00 p.m. Perez will share his knowledge about music and ritual in Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica and demonstrate the unique sounds of a selection of artifacts from the exhibit. Admission to the lecture is $5 for the general public, free for museum members. To RSVP call 805.653.0323 x 7.

The Museum of Ventura County is located at 100 East Main Street in downtown Ventura. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the exhibitions is $4 adults, $3 seniors, $1 children 6-17, members and children under 6 are free. For more museum information go to www.venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.