Inspiring Sounds

For more than a century, the sights and sounds of the national parks have inspired the works of musicians. Today, some national parks present live music, such as Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, where you can enjoy a variety of musical performances. Others, like New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, are devoted to music and its influences throughout history. Discover stories of music in our national parks, from the history of Jazz to modern-day performances.

A father and son percussionist drumming in French Quarter courtyard
Music Events in Parks

Check the calendar for musical events in parks.

Hundreds of people sit in folding chairs, facing a large white marble sarcophagus
Trip Ideas & Things to Do

Find itineraries and trip ideas related to music.

Students sit at the foot of a Man in historic dress hair holding a Fife.
Education: Learning Through Music

Lesson plans, student activities, and other helpful information for educators to learn through sound and song.

Dancers wearing red dresses and green leaves in their hair play wooden instruments while seate
Stories About Music

Explore articles, people, places and other stories about music related to the National Park Service.

a black woman with braids holding a blue cloth while smiling.
What We Do

Learn about the partnerships, preservation efforts, and artist-in-residence programs across the National Park Service.

Last updated: March 21, 2025