This multimedia exhibit delves into the lives and legacies of several immigrant musicians—both celebrated and little-known—who shaped the rich tapestry of American music in the early to mid-20th century. During this era of rapid expansion in the U.S. sound recording industry, countless immigrant artists recorded songs from their homelands, preserving and transforming cultural traditions. Among them were Jewish musicians from Aleppo, Baghdad, Istanbul, Ioannina, Izmir, and beyond, who performed not only for their Jewish communities but also within Armenian, Greek, and Arab circles, united by shared languages and cultural bonds.

Curated by Baltimore-based music historian and record producer Ian Nagoski, this exhibit brings nearly two decades of research on Near Eastern music in 20th-century America to life, offering visitors an intimate exploration of music as a bridge between worlds.

February 2, 2025 – June 1, 2025