The Carnegie Science Center’s newest exhibit looks at the science behind a staple in any modern rock band – the guitar.
The exhibit, “GUITAR: The Instrument that Rocked the World,” includes 14 interactive activities studying the science of sound, the world’s largest playable guitar and over 60 guitar models on display. The exhibit is free with the cost of admission.
Throughout the summer, the Science Center will host a series of corresponding special events and acoustic concerts .
Events
-For What It’s Worth
Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22 12 noon – 4 pm How much is your guitar worth? Carl Grefenstette, founder of Pittsburgh Guitars based in the South Side, will provide free guitar appraisals. Sponsored by 3WS.
-3WS Live Broadcast
Saturday, July 21 12 noon – 4 pm
Radio station 3Ws will broadcast live from the lobby.
-Free Lessons
Aug. 5, 12, 19, and 26 11 am – 4 pm Want to try your hand at the guitar? Empire Music will offer small-group sessions on the Sonic Acoustic Stage. Try out a guitar or just listen in on some informal instruction. At the end of the lesson time, each person may have the chance to play with the instructor and a drummer!
-The Evolution of the American Guitar
Saturday, Aug. 25 at 2 pm and Sunday, Aug. 26 at 1 pm
Acoustic guitar aficionados are in for a treat during a presentation by Dick Boak, archivist for Martin Guitar, that will showcase one of America’s favorite instruments and feature musical vignettes by virtuoso guitarist Craig Thatcher. This presentation offers an interactive history of the 180-year-old Martin Guitar Company and highlights the evolution of Martin acoustic guitars. Plus, explore how specific guitar shapes, sizes and tonewoods lend themselves to particular musical genres.
-Munchkin Matinees
Acoustic performances for early learners (ages 6 and under) will be held on select Mondays from June 18 – Sept. 24. Check the website for upcoming dates and details.
Acoustic Performances
June 23 Jeff Schmutz – (Good Brother Earl)
June 30 Closed – no show
July 7 Bill Deasy
July 14 Joe Grushecky
July 21 Josh Verbanets (Meeting of Important People)
July 28 Joe Negri
August 4 Brian Price and Scott Paulson – WDVE (tba)
August 11 Scott Blasey – The Clarks
August 18 Marty Ashby – Jazz- Manchester Craftmans Guild
August 25 Rick Witkowski (BE Taylor Group) and Kelsey Friday
September 1 Ernie Hawkins – Blues
September 8 Abby Krizner (105.9 the X) and Jason Sichi of “Fist Fight in the Parking Lot”
September 15 The Mavens
September 22 Chris Higbee (formerly of The Povertyneck Hillbillies)
September 29 Uzell Finney (Reggae – The Flow Band)