Trip to the National Museum of African American Music sponsored by MSTP Community Council
by Dr. Allie Lake (M4)
This month, the MSTP Community Council sponsored a visit to the National Museum of African American Music, considered “the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.” Our museum experience began with an introductory film describing the evolution of musical traditions arising from African American culture, emphasizing how these movements were influenced by the historical periods in which they were situated: from the institution of slavery, to World Wars I and II, to the Harlem Renaissance. We explored the galleries, learning about the history of musical traditions, including spirituals, blues, jazz, and hip hop. Importantly, we learned about how many major musical forms in the United States were directly influenced or inspired by African American musical movements. We are lucky to have this one-of-a-kind museum right here in Nashville!