LA's Museum Concerts are Off the Wall

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First Fridays at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

Some people might think the idea of a party in a museum is about as enticing as a senior prom in a funeral parlor. Those people haven’t been to museums in Los Angeles. 

In LA — where drinks, imagination and spirits are stirred, but not shaken — it’s no surprise that museums have taken the lead in curating hip and happening live rock, hip hop and jazz concert series that are so cool, they’re the hottest ticket in town.

Imagine art, science, history and more…

…mixing with music, dancing, conversation, adult refreshments and, shall we say, plenty of opportunities for a memorable encounter…

…all coming together in an unforgettable setting?

Yes, you heard right — live bands, DJs, bars and exhibits. If you’re looking for something different, head to the Getty Center. Outdoor concert venues in LA aren’t that hard to come by, but the Getty is a tough venue to beat. “Saturdays Off the 405” (formerly “Fridays Off the 405”) will take over the museum’s courtyard, which boasts incredible nighttime views of the city. Grab a drink at the cash bar and then check out the musical guests. Past shows have included Monsters are Waiting and DJ Adam 12. Don't forget to take advantage of the free Spotlight After Dark tours, which depart at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. You can view a schedule of events at getty.edu.

The Getty isn't the only museum in LA that hosts concerts. After all, LA is an “anything you can do I can do better” kind of town. So it makes sense that UCLA’s Hammer Museum would feature its own summer series, “Also I Like to Rock.” This year, Hammer Museum is teaming up with KCRW 89.9, and curated by Buzz Bands LA, to present two local upcoming bands per evening. In the past, bands such as Sea Wolf and Tokyo Police Club have played to a packed crowd. A "Also I Like to Rock" calendar, which begins in July, can be found at hammer.ucla.edu.

If rock concerts aren’t your thing (for those of us who just thought that rebellious kid was just a nuisance), LACMA offers "Jazz at LACMA" (formerly "Friday Night Jazz"). The jazz vibes create an atmosphere both laid back and dynamic — two characteristics that define LA. Returning for its 19th season, the series occurs at the Los Angeles Times Central Court at LACMA with this year’s highlights Grand Geissman and the Cool Man Cool Band, Katisse, Skipper Henry Franklin, and Mon David. The free event runs from 6–8 p.m. from April to November. For the "Jazz at LACMA" schedule, visit lacma.org.

So you now have a retort for anyone who says that museums are boring. Obviously, they haven’t been to LA, where museums know how to rock.

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