Spotlight Series: Lindsey Darnell, GRAMMY Museum

I am the Membership and Advancement Manager at the GRAMMY Museum, a nonprofit located in the heart of the Social District. The Museum is dedicated to celebrating and exploring music from yesterday and today to inspire the music of tomorrow through exhibits, music education, grants, preservation, and public programming. 

I oversee our Membership Program and support fundraising efforts. The contributions we receive from members and donors allows the Museum to fulfill its mission and reach the next generation of music lovers and creators. 

I’m proud to share that the GRAMMY Museum has welcomed more than 1,000,000 visitors, hosted over 1,400 public programs featuring artist interviews and live performances, curated more than 100 exhibits, and served over 600,000 students through our music education programs.  

Why is the Social District a good place for the GRAMMY Museum?

The Social District is the perfect place for the GRAMMY Museum. Located at L.A. Live, the Museum is surrounded by great restaurants, beautiful hotels, Crypto.com Arena, the Convention Center, and adds to the world-class entertainment featured within the district. It's a vibrant and accessible location for visitors from around the world, and from right here in Los Angeles, to come explore the Museum.

When you're not working, what do you love to do in the Social District?

Not only do I work in the Social District, I’m a resident as well! One of our favorite weekly routines is visiting the Social District’s Farmers Market every Saturday. It’s something we look forward to. The vendors know our family, and the experience is always warm and welcoming. It’s a wonderful way to support local artisans, enjoy great food, and connect with our community.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of The Social District in the next 5-10 years? What are your hopes and aspirations for the community?

Professionally: I’m excited to continue growing our membership base, especially among fellow DTLA residents. Our exhibits and programs are phenomenal, and once someone experiences the Museum in person, they understand just how special it is. There’s truly no place like it, and I don’t want anyone to miss out! Personally: I hope that residents continue to actively support local businesses and cultural institutions within DTLA. I want the Social District to continue thriving as a welcoming and vibrant community, and that SPBID continues making positive improvements in our neighborhood. The work you are doing is greatly appreciated and doesn’t go unnoticed!

How are you a part of shaping the future of The Social District?

The GRAMMY Museum is such an important cultural and educational resource in the Social District. Music connects us - across generations, backgrounds, and experiences. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that inspires, sparks joy, fosters creativity and connection, and celebrates music’s ability to bring people together. I’m proud to help extend that impact within our community.

The Social District hosts a lot of events, from awards shows to sporting events to concerts. What’s an event you’d want front row seats to attend and where in The Social District would you go before or after the big event?

The GRAMMY Museum public programs are always at the top of my list. We host programs with incredible artists, who are at various stages of their career - from rising stars to legends. The programs feature moderated conversations about their creative process, career journey, latest projects, and so much more, and often end with truly unforgettable live performances. It's absolutely amazing and always leaves me in awe that this is the work I get to be part of - right here in my own neighborhood! There are also times when these programs take place on our Ray Charles Terrace, which provides rooftop views of the city at sunset, delicious food and drinks from our Mike Curb Café, and the energy of music enthusiasts all around. What’s not to love?