The National Music Museum (NMM) is at the heart of South Dakota’s vibrant cultural landscape, providing a unique backdrop this year for celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Nestled in Vermillion, South Dakota, the museum invites visitors to immerse themselves in the nation’s musical heritage through the special Discovery Saturday event on July 4th. This Independence Day, the NMM extends a warm welcome with significantly discounted admission, allowing guests to explore the extensive connections between music and American history at just $2.50 per entry.
Highlighting the museum’s offerings is the captivating exhibition titled “Of Thee I Sing: Origin, Heritage and Patriotism”, which symbolizes a mosaic of America’s musical journey. Housed in the Jason and Betsy Groves Special Exhibition Gallery, this display weaves a narrative rich in culture, featuring instruments emblematic of Native American traditions, colonial craftsmanship, and innovative immigrant artistry from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
South Dakota, known for its vast plains and vibrant cultural landmarks, plays a crucial role in preserving America’s diverse heritage. Contact the NMM for more details on this unique exhibit.
Visitors to Vermillion this July will also enjoy the city-wide Fourth of July festivities at Prentis Park. Here, South Dakota’s community spirit shines as families and individuals engage in games and activities curated by the museum’s staff. Standing as a charming highlight of the day is the NMM Kazoo Band performance, where participants join together in patriotic harmony at 1:00 p.m. to the tune of “Yankee Doodle.” The faint hum of kazoos blending with celebratory chatter typifies the spirit of American festivity. Kazoos are available while supplies last, adding to the authentic experience.
Each Discovery Saturday features the “American Made, American Played” self-guided gallery tour, which pays homage to instruments crafted on American soil. From the heart of jazz and bluegrass to the soul of gospel and the revolution of rock, visitors of all ages will savor the medley of sounds that epitomizes the American experience.
The support for the “Of Thee I Sing” exhibit comes from noted foundations, including the Clayton and Odessa Lang Ofstad Foundation, Mary Chilton DAR Foundation, Margaret Ann Martin Everist Foundation, and the City of Vermillion itself. This generous backing underscores South Dakota’s pivotal role in the project.
For families of veterans and active-duty U.S. military personnel, the experience is enhanced by free admission through the Blue Star Museums program, a significant nationwide initiative illustrating the country’s gratitude towards service members.
The National Music Museum, a true gem of South Dakota, invites everyone to celebrate the art of music as it has evolved with the American journey. The museum opens its doors Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering an opportunity to delve deeply into a musical millennium rooted in passion, diversity, and resilience.
Plan your visit to join in on South Dakota’s rich festivities and celebrate America’s storied legacy. For more information on event details and to confirm your participation, visit the National Music Museum website.
In the vast tapestry of America’s past, South Dakota holds a thread that binds art, history, and community. Come discover it this Independence Day at the National Music Museum.