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Museums
Queens museums come in all shapes and sizes. Some focus
on one specific area of study or an individual artist. Others
offer general glimpses into a field or a movement. But all these
venues share a few traits: they inspire, educate, and enrich.
LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOUSE MUSEUM
Louis Daniel Armstrong (1901–1971) was one of the most famous
jazz musicians of all time. Often called “Satchmo,” he rose to
prominence in the 1920s due mostly to his cornet and trumpet skills,
his enthralling gravelly voice, and his ability to improvise on stage.
From 1943 until his death, he lived in Corona with his wife,
Lucille, who donated the house to the city for use as a museum
upon her death in 1983. The inside is basically untouched, as
nobody else has lived in this national landmark. Guided tours are
enhanced by audio clips of Satchmo making music, socializing,
and even eating. In the back is a Japanese-inspired garden.
Inside scoop: The museum is currently undergoing a $23 million
campaign to build a 14,000-square-foot education center with
parking in a lot across the street. The center will feature a stateof
the-art gallery, a 68-seat jazz club, and a gift shop. It will also
house Armstrong’s archives.
Address: 34-56 107th St., Corona,
and www.louisarmstronghouse.org.
MOMA PS1
Located in a former public school building, MoMA PS1
presents emerging artists and genres via an outdoor gallery, a
two-story display room with high ceilings, and many creatively
utilized nooks and crannies. Yes, it’s affiliated with Manhattan’s
Museum of Modern Art, and the two venues collaborate on many
exhibitions, education activities, and special programs.
Inside scoop: On Summer Saturdays, MoMA PS1 presents Warm
Up, a music series that introduces audiences to the best in live
and electronic music in its courtyard. Founded more than years
ago, the series has gained international fame.
Address: 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City,
and www.momaps1.org.
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/www.louisarmstronghouse.org
/www.momaps1.org
/www.louisarmstronghouse.org
/www.momaps1.org
