Included with paid museum admission; free for members
Learn about the origins of the blues, including Southern delta traditions and big-city electrification, through expressive performances and informative lectures.
Programming supported in part by the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture and Arizona Commission on the Arts
All activities happen on Saturday and Sunday unless noted otherwise.
Craft: Harmonica 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. South El Río Try your hand at making a harmonica like the ones seen in MIM’s Blues exhibit!
Instrument Spotlight: Piano 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. El Río Use your feet and learn to play blues chords on piano mats!
Photo Booth 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. El Río Have your picture taken in our hands-free photo booth! Digitally share your pictures and tag us with #MIMphx for a chance to be featured on our social media.
Gallery Talk Q&A: The Blues 10:30–11:00 a.m. United States / Canada Gallery Learn about highlighted instruments and recent additions to MIM’s redesigned Blues exhibit with Rich Walter, curator for United States / Canada.
Performance: Sandra Bassett 11:30 a.m.–noon North El Río Listen to songstress Sandra Bassett as she sings some of the greatest blues songs.
Curator Talk: Blues Legends 12:15–12:45 p.m. Event Room 2 Join curator for United States / Canada Rich Walter for an informal discussion about legendary blues artists and their influence on music today.
Performance: The Sugar Thieves 1:30–2:00 p.m. North El Río Groove along to a high-energy performance from renowned blues and roots powerhouse band the Sugar Thieves.
Film Screening: The Torch 2:15–4:00 p.m. Event Room 2 Watch an exclusive screening of IFC Films’ The Torch, a documentary about legendary blues guitarist Buddy Guy and how his music influenced the next generation of musicians.
Lunch at Café Allegro Offered daily 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Enjoy a menu of delicious global cuisine with fresh entrées, salads, soups, and grill items showcasing local produce and flavors from around the world.
Shop the Museum Store The Museum Store will feature a wonderful assortment of blues CDs and LPs, books, and musical instruments.
Members save 10% on most items in the Museum Store and online. Every purchase benefits MIM and its programs.
