Traveling Exhibits

"I connected with the life story of Ella Fitzgerald.  She overcame so much in her life and continued to persevere." ― Elizabeth, 8th grader (Oaks Academy Middle School)

Bring the Songbook to Life

Bring a portable, easy-to-display exhibit into your classroom, library, office, or community center with our traveling exhibits.

Through our effort to educate and celebrate the Great American Songbook with music newcomers and standard enthusiasts alike, we are proud to provide our traveling exhibits at little-to-no low cost to borrowers. US shipping available for select exhibits.

Each traveling exhibit is paired with a selection of digital resources perfect for audiences of every age, from K-12 to older adults: online exhibits and collections highlights of historic artifacts, carefully curated Spotify playlists, deep dives, videos, Perfect Harmony® guided music activities, and more!

Locally and Nationally Available Exhibits 

Of Thee I Sing: Politics on Stage

Exploring the intersection of entertainment, politics, and patriotism from George and Ira Gershwin’s Of Thee I Sing to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton: An American Musical, this exhibit is a hit with students!

The Andrews Sisters: Queens of the Jukebox

"The Andrews Sisters." The name conjures unforgettable images: soldiers listening to a jukebox in the canteen, packed theaters with rabid fans jitterbugging in the aisles, and a brass-voiced trio of women in chiffon dresses and bouffant hairdos. This exhibit pairs well with presentations about women in World War II.

The Unsinkable Meredith Willson 

Creator of the classic stage and film hit The Music Man, Meredith Willson started from humble beginnings in Mason City, Iowa. This exhibit is devoted to Willson's long-standing entertainment career that led to the lights of Broadway and international notoriety. This exhibit features materials from the Meredith Willson Papers housed in the Songbook Library & Archives.

Ella Sings the Songbook

Discover how Ella’s eight Verve Record series rejuvenated the music of beloved composers from Tin Pan Alley, Broadway, and Hollywood: Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Jerome Kern, and Johnny Mercer.

• Educational vinyl panel displays (8 total)
• Panel dimensions: 36"W x 69" to 92"H
• Retractable display base (4 total)
• Telescopic pole (4 total)
• Carrying case (4 total)

Fees, Pickup & Shipping:

Our traveling exhibits are available to your organization without usage or rental fees.*

Local borrowers can arrange pickup from the Great American Songbook Foundation headquarters in Carmel, Indiana.

Please note: National borrowers are responsible for all shipping and handling costs incurred while shipping exhibits to and from the destination. 

*Terms and Conditions apply.

Local Pickup Only

A Fine Romance

Using images from Broadway musicals, classic films, and personal collections, A Fine Romance tells the story of Jewish artists who created songs of wit, sophistication and optimism through America's ups and downs during the 20th century.

How long can I borrow an exhibit?

We will work with you to create a personalized duration of time per request. Availability is subject to demand. 

Where have these exhibits been?

Most recently, our traveling exhibits have taken trips to West Point, Music Man on the Square, and the Jazz Education Network conference.

How can I request an exhibit?

We're excited that you are interested in sharing the Songbook with your community! Please fill out the form to submit a request.