An Evening with Chris Martin

Join us for “An Evening with Chris Martin” the 6th-generation owner of the iconic Martin Guitar. Founded in 1833, in New York City, C.F. Martin & Co. has been making the world’s finest acoustic guitars for nearly 200 years. Chris will bring incredible prototypes from his personal collection at the Martin Guitar Museum and share stories from his 35 years at the helm of this American brand. Hear the instruments live from Martin clinician and singer/songwriter, Craig Thatcher.

Before Chris Martin takes the stage, listen to a live performance by the School of Rock House Band. This program gives students under 18 the opportunity to join a band composed of fellow musicians from their school. These House Band members become leaders in their School of Rock community, and perform live shows throughout the year.

Where
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
303 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

When
Wednesday, May 3, 2023
Public Performance, School of Rock House Band: 6 p.m.
Public Program: 7 p.m.
There will not be a Friends of Ford reception for this program.

Please RSVP by April 28, 2023

A Zoom alternative is available here. 

Lectures are free and open to the public. Since seating is limited, reservations are strongly encouraged. Walk-ins will be accommodated first come, first served.

C. F. Martin, IV, or “Chris” as he prefers, is the Executive Chairman of the world-renowned C.F. Martin & Co. and the 6th generation of Martin family to run the business. Martin acoustic guitars are prized worldwide for their exceptional tone, design, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Under Chris’ direction, the Company has maintained its integrity and industry-wide respect while growing and prospering to unprecedented manufacturing and sales levels. Martin Guitar was founded in 1833 and is headquartered in Nazareth, PA. (MartinGuitar.com)

About the exhibit: America at the Crossroads: The GUITAR and a Changing Nation looks at America’s evolution through the lens of its most popular instrument—an instrument that has been part of our cultural heritage since the country’s founding. The guitar has been a symbol for everything from generational differences and racial divides to politics, consumer marketing, and fashionable relevance. This exhibit is a touring exhibition of The National GUITAR Museum.