NMAAM officially opened its doors to the public on January 30. “NMAAM is complete,” said NMAAM President and CEO, H. Beecher Hicks III.
“We have been preparing for this day for more than 20 years, but this museum has actually been more than 400 years in the making.
“We look forward to welcoming music lovers from around the world to this magnificent cultural experience,” added Hicks.
“We also want to thank the thousands of people who have supported us along the way, as we prepare to celebrate the history of African American music, which truly is the soundtrack of our nation.”
NMAAM health and safety amid COVID-19
Due to COVID-19, the museum is implementing reduced capacity and social distancing. It also requires masks or face coverings for entry.
The museum covers 56,000 square feet. It is the only museum in the world dedicated to more than 50 music genres and styles created or inspired by African Americans. This includes blues, jazz, gospel, hip hop and R&B.
NMAAM boasts more than 1,500 artefacts, objects, memorabilia and clothing across its seven galleries. It also features state-of-the-art technology.
The galleries explore Black musical traditions from the 1600s. Six of the seven galleries are permanent and one is rotating.
Learn about Black musical traditions at NMAAM
“This museum is a unique place that tells a special story,” said Hicks. “Our hope is that no matter your age, race or preferred music genre, within this museum you can find something that stirs your soul, pleases your ears and moves your feet.
“We encourage everyone to start planning their 2020 trips to Nashville and purchase your tickets to this first-of-its-kind institution dedicated to celebrating incredible people and moments in American history.”
Last month, NMAAM announced a partnership with Sony Music Group (SMG) to create the Sony Music Scholars Black Music Certification and Scholarship Program.
“We’re very pleased that we can help bring the museum to life and further our shared mission of impacting communities through music education,” said Towalame Austin, Executive VP, Philanthropy & Social Impact at SMG.
Meanwhile, Walt Disney World Resort is celebrating Black History Month throughout and beyond February, with offerings including ‘The Soul of Jazz’ at EPCOT.
