PHX Reporter

Registrar Linda Kirsh and associate registrar Terra Smith are responsible for managing the Musical Instrument Museum's (MIM) collection, which includes over 12,000 instruments and objects from across the globe. Their work ensures that each item is properly documented and cared for, helping MIM maintain strong relationships with lenders, sellers, donors, and other key external contacts.

Linda Kirsh has been with MIM for more than 15 years. She started as a receiving coordinator before becoming a registrar in 2011. Terra Smith joined MIM’s Guest Service team in 2020 and advanced to team lead and supervisor roles before transitioning to the registration department.

The pair coordinates logistics for acquisitions, donations, and loans while keeping detailed records of each object's history, condition, and location. They handle contracts, process payments, oversee instrument arrivals at the museum, and ensure every piece is covered under MIM’s insurance policies.

“We work behind the scenes, but we’re so connected to the other departments in the museum,” says Terra Smith.

Shipping is another major responsibility they manage. This involves directing every object’s journey to and from MIM while considering factors like distance, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, as well as international customs laws. Planning these shipments requires thorough investigation.

“We must be very particular about saying ‘What is the object made of? How fragile is it? What permits might it require to ship it?’” notes Terra Smith.

“Sometimes shipping a piano is easier than shipping a guitar,” adds Linda Kirsh.

Effective communication with dealers, donors, and lenders who speak various languages is crucial when coordinating shipping arrangements.

“There’s a lot of trust that builds over time and needs our attention with dealers, lenders, and donors,” says Linda Kirsh. “When an instrument is in transit to MIM you feel utterly responsible for it.”