Sound & Story: 25 Years at the American Jazz Museum

With its roots in African American culture, jazz is infused in the DNA of America. Since its birth in the early 20th century, jazz history has been analogous to our everyday lives. It has been part of many significant developments, people, events, and social movements in Kansas City and America's history. Its story can help us understand the country, the city, and ourselves in a deeper, more meaningful way. 

As we celebrate 25 years at the American Jazz Museum (AJM), we celebrate the four pillars of our mission: Exhibition, Performance, Education, and Research. In this exhibition each pillar is explored with artifacts and examples of how jazz is an indispensable part of the cultural infrastructure and identity of Kansas City.