Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Explore Bristol, TN

Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Bristol TN-VA

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The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, explores how evolving sound technology shaped their success, and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music. Referred to by scholars as the "big bang of country music," the Sessions included the first recordings of The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers and ushered country music into the mainstream.

Through multiple theater experiences,  interactive displays, texts and artifact – along with a variety of educational programs, music performances, and community events – the exciting story of these recording sessions and their far-reaching influence comes alive. Rotating exhibitions from guest curators and other institutions, including the Smithsonian, are featured throughout the year in the Special Exhibits Gallery. The museum also houses a research collection including an extensive digital archive.

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Marty Stuart  with museum Head Curator Dr. Rene Rodgers in the atrium at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Country music icon Marty Stuart with museum Head Curator Dr. Rene Rodgers at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Pokey LaFarge performing in the performance theater at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Pokey LaFarge performing in the performance theater at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
The  Bristol Sessions and Circles of Success Wall
The Bristol Sessions and Circles of Success Wall
An instrument case at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
The instrument case at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum holds a world of treasures!
Interactive listening station inside the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Interactive Listening Station inside the Museum
Live DJs broadcasting from WBCM Radio Bristol inside the museum
WBCM Radio Bristol is a live, working radio station and exhibit inside the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. The station can be accessed internationally through the station's free mobile app and online at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.
Jimmie Rodgers famous "Blue Yodel,"  a 1928 000-45 Martin, currently on display at the Museum!
Jimmie Rodgers famous "Blue Yodel," a 1928 000-45 Martin, currently on display at the Museum!
Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Hours
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is open for tours
Tuesday—Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed on Mondays
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For the most up-to-date hours and information, please contact Birthplace of Country Music Museum directly.

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This Location is part of the country music pathway