For the first time in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s twenty-four year history, fans can pick up real instruments, learn to play, jam with friends, make a video of their performance, and brand their band with custom merchandise in the museum’s new interactive exhibit, The Garage.
“There’s nothing better than the thrill of cranking up the volume on an electric guitar and visitors can now do exactly that at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!” said Rock Hall CEO & President Greg Harris. “Fans from all over the world have visited the Rock Hall to see and hear how music connects us, now they can make music in the Museum.”
The interactive space includes twelve dedicated instrument stations featuring guitars, drums and keyboards, and a brief instructional video. Fans can select songs to perform from a curated selection that includes music from classic rock, soul, grunge and hip hop and all points in between. Songs were selected to fit a range of music abilities, including those of the 50,000 students that visit the Museum annually. For some, this will be the unforgettable first time they have experienced a hands-on connection to the instruments of rock. Fans can also collectively jam in a recording room filled with the instruments of rock and roll and share their performance video.
An exhibition of iconic artifacts from the Rock Hall’s collection, including guitars from legendary artists spanning all eras is also on display. Fans can also play acoustic instruments in a comfortable lounge area that will also serve as a space for pop-up classes and demonstrations.
There’s also an interactive design area where visitors can create their own band logos and merchandise.
The Garage, which takes over the Museum’s second floor, is a part of the Rock Hall’s massive ongoing transformation of the exhibition spaces and visitor experience. Recent upgrades include an immersive theater experience, added outdoor summer stage, and an interactive Hall of Fame floor.