Voices of Time: Bengaluru Museum's Youth-Led Exhibition Chronicles Sound Evolution
Remember the nostalgic days of listening to music on your Walkman or MP3 player? The journey of recorded sound has traversed an extraordinary path from early mechanical devices and gramophones to contemporary digital platforms and even speculative brain-responsive technologies. This fascinating evolution of listening practices, mirroring societal changes, is now being celebrated through a unique exhibition in Bengaluru.
Youth Curators Take Center Stage at Indian Music Experience Museum
The Indian Music Experience Museum (IME), located in JP Nagar, Bengaluru, is hosting the 'Voices of Time' exhibition from February 1, 2026, with displays continuing until March 15. What makes this exhibition particularly remarkable is that it has been curated and executed entirely by the museum's Youth Advisory Board (YAB), a dedicated cohort of teenagers aged 14–17 years.
This innovative program is managed by the ReReeti Foundation and represents a significant step toward integrating young people as active changemakers within cultural organizations. According to Preema John, Museum Director at IME, the initiative provides behind-the-scenes exposure to museum operations while simultaneously nurturing leadership skills among participants.
Interactive Walkthroughs Blend Storytelling and Performance
On the opening day, the Youth Advisory Board led two interactive guided walkthroughs that creatively blended storytelling, role play, and a short skit. This engaging approach brings to life the exhibition's content, which traces the history of recorded sound across time, communities, and technological innovations.
The exhibition journey begins with early artifacts like wax cylinders and progresses through various formats including gramophones, radios, cassettes, and modern digital devices. It offers visitors a comprehensive look at how sound recording has transformed alongside societal developments, creating a rich tapestry of auditory history.
Educational Impact and Community Engagement
By empowering teenagers to curate this exhibition, the Indian Music Experience Museum demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to cultural education. The Youth Advisory Board members gain practical experience in museum management, exhibition design, and public engagement while contributing meaningfully to Bengaluru's cultural landscape.
This initiative not only preserves and presents historical sound technology but also fosters a new generation of museum professionals and cultural advocates. The 'Voices of Time' exhibition serves as both an educational resource and an inspiring example of youth-led cultural programming in India's technology capital.
