The West Virginia Music Hall of Fame has partnered with the West Virginia Department of Education to create an interactive traveling, educational and historical exhibit. The WVMHoF’s Innovative Traveling Museum is housed in a striking, 28-foot, handicapped accessible trailer. Once inside, students experience the rich history of West Virginia music through artifacts, historical photographs and documents. The project has already become a model for a similar project for the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

The Traveling Museum is currently visiting schools in all of West Virginia’s 55 counties as well as making “appearances” at various fairs, festivals, conferences and events throughout the state.

In addition to the visual elements, the Traveling Museum includes valuable educational tools that make the experience not only a fascinating visual tour but an informative session that leaves both students and adults inspired and motivated. The WVMHoF’s Interactive Map is a state-of-the-art, county-by-county map of West Virginia that is viewed on a 40-inch touch screen monitor.

A WVMHoF staff person takes visitors through a “musical tour” of West Virginia. By “touching” a county, visitors access photos, bios and sound/video clips of notable musicians from all of WV’s 55 counties. The styles range from country and traditional to classical, rock, opera, blues, bluegrass and gospel. Visitors of all ages are intrigued and surprised at the variety of music that has been created by these musicians.

Another important interactive tool is the “make your own CD” recording studio. People are able to record a song, singing a capella or accompanying themselves on guitar or keyboard (supplied by the HoF). As in a real recording studio, they are able to take the recording home.

If you would like to have the WVMHoF’s Traveling Museum at your event, please contact the WVMHoF office: 304/342-4412 or .