The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum reopened to the public June 17 and has since welcomed visitors from 10 different states. The Hall of Fame is celebrating Independence Day with live music hosted by executive director, Chris Joslin.
The live music presentation is included with paid admission and will occur within the exhibit space at the Hall of Fame in an area of the museum titled “The Festival Era.” The Hall of Fame is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. today and the music presentations will occur at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Joslin is a multi-instrumentalist playing banjo, dobro, guitar, and mandolin and has performed and recorded with a host of artists based in Nashville, including Grand Ole Opry appearances with Mike Snider. Since joining the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum as executive director, he has performed on the ROMP stage with Old Crow Medicine Show as well as Sam Bush.
“Before we closed to the public in mid-March due to COVID-19, we routinely hosted large groups from the travel industry, schools, private tour groups, and local church groups, and almost always included a live music component,” Joslin said. “Bluegrass is rich in history but is best experienced through the music.”
The 30-minute live music presentation is equal parts entertainment, instrument demonstration, sing-a-long, and education. With paid admission, visitors have the option to register upon arrival at the Hall of Fame for a reserved spot for one of the live music presentations.
Space is limited in order to adhere to Kentucky guidelines for social distancing, so those interested need to register in person. With space to accommodate only 26 participants for each presentation, registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition to the live music presentation, museum admission includes a self-guided tour of two floors of exhibit space that includes the Hall of Fame exhibit with artifacts and instruments belonging to such groundbreaking artists as Bill Monroe, John Hartford, and Josh Graves. The live music presentation on Saturday provides an opportunity for Hall of Fame visitors to experience the music behind the exhibits.
“I love to play music, and I am most passionate about sharing the rich history of bluegrass through the songs I play and sing,” Joslin said. “I consider bluegrass music the people’s music because most anyone can relate to the songs, and I focus on songs people know encouraging everyone to sing along. I want those who visit the Hall of Fame to experience the music by actively participating.”
