Grammy Museum entrance (The Musicians Foundation Blog)

Experience LA: The Grammy Museum

Every day is a good day to experience Los Angeles. From the beaches, to the hills, to Hollywood, there is a little something for everyone. Unfortunately, many who make Los Angeles their homes forget about the rich culture that the city has to offer. So I have made it my mission to visit some of the monumental attractions and restaurants in Los Angeles, and provide some insight as well as inspiration to go out and experience the great city of LA!

The Grammy Museum

Located at L.A. Live in downtown, the Grammy Museum is the perfect place to visit with friends, family, or anyone that loves music. The museum consists of four floors and visitors are taken first to the fourth floor to continue their way down through the museum. As you step out of the elevator, you are immediately immersed in all things Grammy. The fourth floor is filled with interactive stations and booths explaining the history of various music genres allowing you to listen to and experience music in ways that you have never done before. But don’t get caught up in all the interactive fun – this floor also showcases the artifacts (such as original albums, costumes, instruments) of some of the most acclaimed artists in a number of genres.

Upon entering the third floor, you are met with the interactive instrument section Roland Live were you can engage in the production of music by playing a few keys on the keyboard or rocking out the electric guitar! The interactive experience continues as you visit one of the ten or so booths where you can unwind as you get informed on the history and steps of music making, or take part in recording the voiceover for your favorite song. As you could probably tell, much of the museum was composed of these interactive stations in which you picked a subject of interest (whether it be the history of the awards, or albums of your favorite artist) and simply listened to what the installations said – an extremely relaxing and easy way to gain insight without feeling tired!

Lastly you finally make your way down to the second floor of the museum where you could visit the Clive Davis Theater. Here you can sit back and enjoy a presentation of The Making of a GRAMMY Moment, allowing you to take part in the backstage scene of the 50th GRAMMY awards and making you feel like a part of the celebration. On the second floor are also all the displays of special exhibits of the archives and history of famous artists, genres, and studios. Some of the current exhibits include artists Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, and The Beach Boys. Word to the wise: the special exhibit tribute to Whitney Houston that displays her wardrobe and musical history is a must see! With private donations of photographs, scrapbooks, and stage costumes from Whitney Houston’s family, the exhibit serves as a great way to recognize Whitney Houston’s musical influence and legacy. In addition, on the first floor of the museum is a small gift shop with cute collectibles, which is always a plus. Overall, the museum provided an educational, interactive, and fun experience – a great way to spend a free afternoon.

800 W Olympic Blvd A244 Los Angeles / 213-765-6800 / $11.95 (Student) 

Everyday is a good day to experience Los Angeles!

Reach Staff Reporter Celine Park here.