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Graphic for America at the Crossroads exhibit.
Fender display case with three Stratocasters and accompanying images of stars.
A Roland guitar in the foreground and a musical timeline across the back wall.
Display case for Alembic featuring three guitars and accompanying images of stars playing them.
Gallery shot with several guitars hanging in display cases and two TV screens showing guitarists.

America at the Crossroads: The Guitar and a Changing Nation

On view May 24 – September 1, 2024

Discover the evolution and cultural impact of the guitar through history in “America at the Crossroads,” a traveling exhibition from the National Guitar Museum. A bonus section in the California Museum’s presentation spotlights Golden State musicians and manufacturers who made their mark globally.

Featuring:
  • A 40-instrument display on the guitar’s evolution through different historical eras
  • Original guitars played by Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix, John Lee Hooker, Eddie Van Halen and Los Tigres del Norte
  • Displays highlighting California guitar makers Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, Taylor Guitars, Alembic, and Santa Cruz Guitar Company

Advance tickets available through the link below.