The Randolph County Community Arts Center, in cooperation with the West Virginia State Humanities Council, will be exploring America's root music as it hosts the local showing of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit "New Harmonies Celebrating American Roots Music," beginning July 11 and continuing through Aug. 21.

In support of the exhibit, 14 merchants in downtown Elkins are planning to have window displays showcasing music-related items and are requesting assistance from the public to lend items.

"This is a great way to celebrate our own local musical heritage," says Stacy Lally, RCCAC display coordinator and AmeriCorps member. "We encourage the community to participate in this wonderful project."

Through a selection of photographs, recordings, instruments, lyrics and artist profiles, "New Harmonies" chronicles the exchange and enrichment of immigrant and native U.S. traditions that created America's robust musical environment. The main beat of the exhibition is the ongoing cultural process that has made America the birthplace of more music than any place on earth. This includes Appalachian mountain music, country/western, gospel, blues and folk.

Area residents who have music-related memorabilia from that era and would like to share with the community are encouraged to contact a participating merchant. Suggestions are sheet music, instruments, old concert posters, photographs of family members playing instruments, record players, radios and album covers.

This is the second time downtown merchants have supported a Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit. Three years ago, downtown windows were decorated with World War II memorabilia.

Downtown merchants who have not been contacted but would like to participate should call Lally at 304-637-2355 or e-mail americorpsmemberstacy@randolpharts.org.

This exhibit sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution, the West Virginia Humanities Council, Verizon and the RCCAC, with assistance from the Augusta Heritage Center and Allegheny Insurance.