Sound of History: Black Music City at the Museum of the American Revolution

What does it mean for musicians to be embedded at a history museum? How might art influence practice? How might history influence art? And what does the Revolution sound like 250 years later? As the Semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence approaches, the Museum of the American Revolution will explore these questions in partnership with ArtPhilly and Black Music City, a collaboration between WXPN, WRTI, and RECPhilly. Two artist fellows will be immersed in the Museum - exploring collections and exhibitions, attending meetings and public programs - and ultimately using the experience to create original musical works bridging the worlds between 1776 and 2026. These new compositions will premiere in June 2026 during Philadelphia’s inaugural What Now: 2026 citywide arts festival. 

Sound of History is a joint commission of ArtPhilly, Black Music City, and the Museum for the American Revolution for the What Now: 2026 festival with support from America250PA, The Presser Foundation, and the 25th Century Foundation.