The newly built Louis Armstrong Center offers an immersive experience for jazz enthusiasts and architecture aficionados. Located in the Corona neighborhood of Queens, this landmark serves as a testament to the legacy of Louis Armstrong and the architectural prowess of Caples Jefferson Architects.
The center not only showcases Armstrong’s historic home but also offers a deep dive into the extensive archives dedicated to the jazz legend. Visitors can explore original recordings, personal belongings, and much more, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in music history and architectural design.
The Legacy of Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong, a cornerstone in the world of jazz, left an indelible mark on music history. His home, purchased in 1943 with his wife Lucille, stands as a preserved monument to his life and work. The Louis Armstrong House Museum & Archives provides a unique glimpse into Armstrong’s personal and professional life, featuring over 750 original recordings made between 1950 and 1970.
These recordings are now part of the extensive Louis Armstrong Collection.
A National and New York City Historic Landmark
Designated as both a National and New York City historic landmark, the Louis Armstrong House Museum & Archives is a treasure trove of historical artifacts. The house itself has remained unoccupied since the Armstrongs’ time, providing an authentic snapshot of their daily lives.
The guided tour includes insights into their social context, original belongings, and archival photos, offering a comprehensive view of the Armstrongs’ life.
The Louis Armstrong Center: A Modern Architectural Marvel
The newly constructed Louis Armstrong Center, designed by Caples Jefferson Architects, serves as a welcome center for the historic home. The building features an exhibit area, live jazz room, offices, and archives.
This modern addition complements the historic house, creating a seamless blend of past and present.
Design Highlights
The architectural design of the Louis Armstrong Center is a testament to the skill and vision of Sara Caples and Everardo Jefferson, principals of Caples Jefferson Architects. The building not only serves functional purposes but also enhances the visitor experience with its thoughtful design elements.
The center is designed to be a welcoming space for visitors, featuring:
- Exhibit Area: Showcasing the current exhibition “Here to Stay.”
- Live Jazz Room: A space dedicated to live jazz performances.
- Offices and Archives: Housing the extensive Louis Armstrong Collection.
The Louis Armstrong Collection: A Treasure Trove of Jazz History
The Louis Armstrong House Archive is the largest collection dedicated to a single jazz musician worldwide. It encompasses 13 Research Collections, 60,194 individual assets, 111 scrapbooks, about 6,500 sound recordings, over 16,000 photographs and negatives, over 500 musical scores, over 300 videos, over 300 posters, and 7 trumpets.
This extensive archive provides invaluable resources for researchers, historians, and jazz enthusiasts.
Original Recordings and Personal Belongings
One of the highlights of the archive is the collection of original recordings made by Armstrong between 1950 and 1970. These recordings offer a unique insight into his creative process and musical evolution.
Additionally, visitors can explore personal belongings, including photographs, musical scores, and even Armstrong’s own trumpets.
Exclusive Tours and Events
The Louis Armstrong Center offers exclusive tours and events for members of Untapped New York. These tours provide an insider’s perspective on the building and its design, led by the architects themselves.
Members can also explore the current exhibition and participate in live jazz performances.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of Untapped New York offers numerous benefits, including access to exclusive tours and events. Membership levels include:
- Insider ($20/month): Reserve 1 ticket to events.
- Explorer ($30/month): Reserve 2 tickets to events.
- Superfan ($100/month): Reserve 2 tickets and enjoy additional perks.
Members can log in to their accounts to book events and take advantage of these exclusive opportunities. Registration opens 14 days before the event date, and spots are limited, so early booking is recommended.
Plan Your Visit
Visiting the Louis Armstrong Center is a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of one of jazz’s greatest legends.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a history buff, or an architecture lover, the center offers something for everyone.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Louis Armstrong and experience the architectural marvel that is the Louis Armstrong Center.
For more information and to book your visit, check out the official Louis Armstrong Center Tour page.