In the history of this vast and changing nation, every distinct culture has contributed its own music, using it to maintain identity and sustain community. Yet music also creates a miraculous bond, a way to transform differences into understanding, a way to blend many diverse sounds into a music that is purely American. At the National Museum of American History, music and history are inseparable.
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Music Collections
Celebrating America’s music begins with the exceptional collections of instruments, artifacts, images, documents, and recordings housed in the Museum. The music collections are maintained and constantly expanded by dedicated curators, scholars, and archivists.
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Performances & Public Programs
Instruments and scores give insight into musical history, but performance is the only way to bring them to life, so the Museum uses its collections to develop innovative music programming. No other museum presents concerts that embrace such a range of styles.
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Exhibitions
Visitors are stimulated and delighted by exhibitions drawn from the music collections. Special exhibitions let curators showcase significant historical artifacts and documents from the collections.
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Education & Outreach
The Museum works diligently to link Americans to their musical heritage. Educational opportunities abound in the Museum through tours and public programs, and curators and musicians travel throughout the nation offering workshops and concerts.
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Sounds of America
America's music is as diverse as the American experience itself. Our "Sounds of America" series, in collaboration with Smithsonian Global Sound, explores various themes and styles of American music. Or, enjoy clips from the Museum's own performing groups.
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Publications & Additional Resources
Whether exhibition catalogues, recordings, radio programs, cultural studies, or meticulous examinations of rare instruments, Museum products reflect the expertise and enthusiasms of the distinguished staff.
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The music treasures at the Museum were donated by generous men and women who recognized the significance of this national collection. Gifts of important artifacts not only enrich the collection, they are preserved by museum professionals and made available for the enjoyment and education of future generations. If you are interested in donating musical memorabilia or contributing, please contact us at 202-786-2691 or email us. |
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