Play It Loud
Instruments of Rock & Roll
Play It Loud: Instruments of Rock and Roll is an exhibition that tracks rock music's seismic impact on society and culture—all through the instruments and sounds that defined its voice.
— AC/DCFOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK, WE SALUTE YOU.
Rock and roll is, and has always been, a sonic and cultural force. Scroll down to hear from the musicians themselves, discover their iconic instruments, and experience a few of the defining moments of rock and roll history. Or take your pick of which story to explore first.
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Instruments
Guitars. Drums. Saxophones. Pianos. Sitars. . . . These are just a few of more than 130 finely crafted instruments on view in Play It Loud.
For a glimpse of the instruments, flip over the cards below.
![Little Richard plays the piano with one leg resting on the top of the piano.](https://www.metmuseum.org/_next/image?url=https://metmuseum.org/-/media/images/primer/play-it-loud/info-cards/little-richard_1440x1080_q70.jpg&w=1080&q=75 800w,
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Musicians
Watch five rock legends tell personal and surprising stories about playing—and hacking—instruments to create their signature sounds.
— Lester Bangs, Music CriticFor performing rock 'n' roll . . . there's only one thing you need: NERVE.
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The Defining Moments
When iconic instruments and musicians come together, people follow. Choose a topic on the right to experience some of the defining moments that changed the world, and get a Spotify playlist of hits ranging from the Mississippi Delta to Monterey Pop, The Ed Sullivan Show to Jimmy Fallon. Rock and roll's powerful legacy continues.
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Plan Your Visit
Exhibition Details
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Dates April 8, 2019-October 1, 2019
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The Met Fifth Avenue 1000 5th Ave, New York City
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Exhibition Field Gallery 199
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Image and Video Credits
Made possible by
Supported by
and the Director's Fund.