Avsenik-themed museum re-opens after renovation

The museum dedicated to the work of Slavko Avsenik (1929-2015) and his brother Vilko re-opened with an exhibition conceived as a timeline that chronicles the development of Slavko Avsenik into a legendary musician.

Several new personal items, family and concert photographs and musical notations have been added to the museum's collection.

A special place has been set aside for the 31 gold, two platinum and one diamond record, which the Avsenik Brothers Ensemble received throughout its long career. All of its other awards are also on display.

Director Nataša Farkaš said the renovated museum not only maintained the heritage of the Avsenik brothers, it also brought it closer to younger generations.

Slavko Avsenik's grandson Sašo believes the museum is an inspiration to young musicians, as it shows what one can achieve with music.

The idea for the renovation was conceived in the beginning of this year, said Farkaš. "We felt that the museum deserved a greater legacy and a better look, especially after the death of Slavko Avsenik," she said.

According to her, the museum started out in 1989 as a small section of the Avsenik-Hohner Gallery, founded by Brigita Avsenik, Slavko Avsenik's widow.

The section soon expanded and in 2008 it officially became a museum, showcasing the ensemble's records, instruments, clothes, posters and awards. Six years later, the gallery and the museum moved to a bigger location, only to be renovated this year.

The museum attracts about 17,000 visitors per year. Most of them come from German-speaking countries, but after Slavko Avsenik's death last year the number of Slovenian visitors has been increasing as well.