GRAMMY Museum Mississippi will officially open to the public on March 5 on the campus of Delta State University in Cleveland, Miss. Anticipated to be one of the most technologically advanced music-themed museums, the new 28,000-square-foot facility will explore Mississippi's deep musical roots and impact on modern music, as well as celebrate a broad range of musical styles recognized by the GRAMMY Awards such as pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, classical, and gospel. A slate of activities from March 5–6 will celebrate the occasion.
Grand opening festivities on March 5 include a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by Mississippi Music On The Grounds, an all-star lineup of performances showcasing Mississippi-based musicians Eden Brent, Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Vashti Jackson, Shannon McNally, Southern Komfort Brass Band, and Charlie Worsham. Later that evening, Delta State University's Bologna Performing Arts Center will host Back Where I Come From, a benefit concert featuring GRAMMY nominees Mac McAnally and the Williams Brothers, among others.
On March 6 the Museum will host Gospel On The Grounds, a free concert featuring the Steadman Brothers, Electrifying Crown Seekers and University of Mississippi Gospel Choir.
"After more than six years of building the GRAMMY Museum's solid foundation in Los Angeles, The Recording Academy is excited to be part of the development of a new museum site in Mississippi," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy and Chair of the Board of the GRAMMY Museum. "With its proximity to our membership communities in Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans, we're looking forward to expanding the reach of the Museum's mission and programs into one of the most musically vibrant regions in America."
"Our Museum will welcome visitors from all over the world to explore all genres of music and truly experience Mississippi's deep music history," said GRAMMY Museum Executive Director Emily Havens. "In addition, we will provide educational opportunities for thousands of students annually."
The Museum, which is the first GRAMMY Museum to be built outside of Los Angeles, will utilize advanced technology to explore various musical styles through more than 15 permanent exhibits. Mono To Surround will allow visitors to hear the evolution of sound through a custom listening experience while History Of Dance will feature a touch-sensitive, multicolored dance floor and dance tutorial video. Exhibits such as Mississippi Music Legends, Mississippi Music Bar and Mississippi Music Trail And Timeline will explore the state's musical history and unique culture. Other exhibits will explore subjects such as songwriting, producing and the history of guitar.
In addition to permanent exhibits, the Museum will also present special exhibits throughout the year. The inaugural special exhibit, Ladies And Gentlemen … The Beatles!, will provide fresh insight into how the Beatles impacted America in the 1960s and beyond.
Similar to the GRAMMY Museum at L.A. Live, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi will put education at the forefront of its mission. The Museum will provide tours and lesson plans for teachers, student workshops, and educational and public programs. An outdoor amphitheater adjacent to the Museum will accommodate up to 2,000 people for concerts and special events.
"Music is much more than a form of entertainment for Mississippians — it's a part of our history and legacy," said Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant. "We're thrilled to have a museum dedicated to our part in shaping the nation's music history."
For more information on the Museum and grand opening events, visit www.grammymuseumms.org.