Join the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park on Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, for the opening weekend of St. Louis Sound, a free, 6,000-square-foot special exhibit that explores St. Louis’ vital role in the story of American popular music from the dawn of recorded sound to Nelly’s “Country Grammar.” More than 200 historical artifacts from legendary musicians, world-class songwriters and important venues will be on display.
Images courtesy of Missouri Historical Society.
“Our exciting lineup of opening weekend events gives our community the chance to come together, celebrate and connect to St. Louis’ deep musical heritage,” said Andrew Wanko, public historian and exhibit content lead for St. Louis Sound. “We’re thrilled to invite you to discover why St. Louis is one of the most important cities for musical invention and enjoyment in the world.”
Throughout the weekend, enjoy live performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages, hands-on activities and presentations from the team who created the exhibit and the people who have their fingers on the pulse of the St. Louis music scene. See the full schedule below.
Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021
- 10 am Ribbon-cutting ceremony with Murphy Lee, Grammy Award-winning rapper from the platinum-selling group St. Lunatics, and Missouri Historical Society President Dr. Frances Levine.
- 11 am – 1 pm Live concert with Marko Polo and FIRE DOG.
- 11 am – 4 pm Kids activities including coloring giant 2-D guitars and painting St. Louis Sound inspired rocks to add to the STL ROCKS rock garden.
- 2 – 6 pm Grab drinks and a meal from some of St. Louis’ best food trucks.
- 2:30 – 3:15 pm The outdoor mainstage kicks off with the Red & Black Brass Band.
- 3:45 – 5 pm Murphy Lee and Friends take the outdoor stage.
- 5 – 9 pm KDHX broadcasts live in the MacDermott Grand Hall. Music My Way with DJ LadyJock is live from 5 – 7 pm. Catch Traveling at the Speed of Sound with The Time Traveler G. Wiz from 7 – 9 pm
Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021
- 11:30 am – 12:20 pm St. Louis Symphony Orchestra performs.
- 11 am – 4 pm Kids activities including coloring giant 2-D guitars and painting St. Louis Sound inspired rocks to add to the STL ROCKS rock garden.
- 1 – 1:50 pm Bobby Norfolk performs as Scott Joplin with pianist Brad Ellebrecht.
- 2:30 – 2:45 pm National champion Gentlemen of Vision St. Louis step team performs.
- 3 – 4:30 pm “Love that St. Louis Sound” keynote featuring the Funky Butt Brass Band and local authors Amanda Doyle and Steve Pick.