Cancelosi Collection
The Gift
In 2023, the National Music Museum welcomed a remarkable collection of stringed instruments once owned by the late cellist and collector Robert Cancelosi, DMA. Entrusted to the NMM by his son, Ken Cancelosi, in memory of his father. “To all teachers and students called to perform and study the art of music, I give these tools to you,” said Ken Cancelosi. “I hope these diverse sounds and the music they create inspire you, as they did my father.”
Initially, the collection included five cellos, 27 bows, archival materials, and a Hawaiian guitar that Robert Cancelosi played as a child. Since then, the collection has continued to grow, thanks to the generosity of Ken Cancelosi, Paul Becker of Carl Becker and Son, and other supporters, including Pirastro, which has contributed chin rests, strings to help maintain the instruments in optimal playing condition.
About the Cancelosi Chamber Music Series
The National Music Museum and the University of South Dakota Department of Music present the Cancelosi Chamber Music Series—an initiative that expands chamber music opportunities for USD students and brings distinguished professional artists to the region to perform on historic instruments from the NMM.
Named in honor of Robert Cancelosi and the generosity of Ken Cancelosi—whose landmark gift of historic string instruments and ongoing support anchor the Series—the Cancelosi Chamber Music Series presents multiple concerts throughout the year, showcasing USD student ensembles, faculty collaborations, and guest artists.
Explore the Collection
Instruments
Bows
Support for the Cancelosi Collection Provided By
