The Michigan Federation of Music Clubs, in its Articles of Incorporation - adopted November 13, 1957 and filed with the state of Michigan on January 7, 1958 - states as its purpose: To bring into working relation with one another music clubs and other musical organizations and individuals directly or indirectly associated with musical activity, for the purpose of aiding and encouraging musical education and developing and maintaining high musical standards throughout the state of Michigan, the United States of American, and other countries.
The Michigan Federation of Music Clubs, is affiliated with the NFMC, the National Federation of Music Clubs. The National Federation of Music Clubs is a tax-exempt, non-profit, philanthropic and educational organization dedicated to music education and promotion of the creative and performing arts in America. The Federation is designated on the Official Roster of the United Nations, the only music organization thus accredited as a Non-Governmental Organization, and was chartered by the U.S. Congress on August 9, 1982. Detailed information can be found at the website of the NFMC. More information is also available on Facebook, FeedBurner, and twitter.
In the spring of 1916 members of the Tuesday Musicale Club of Detroit invited officers of the fourteen music clubs of Michigan to a meeting at the Statler Hotel. The purpose was to consider the idea of forming a "Federation of Musical Clubs in Michigan" as a part of the National Federation. It was then the national policy to appoint "Vice Presidents" even in states not federated. Mrs. F.W. Nichols of Houghton was appointed to represent Michigan for 1916. The National President, Mrs. A. J. Ochsner of Chicago, was among guests at this meeting and the "Federation of Musical Clubs of Michigan" was duly formed. Mrs. Nichols was elected president
Clubs represented were: Detroit, Ann Arbor, Bay City, Capac, Coldwater, Dexter, Flint, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Marquette, Mount Clemens, Pontiac, Port Huron and Wayne.
Since 1916 the Michigan Federation of Music Clubs has been influential in making music a force in the cultural life of our state and nation. Through many special projects, each of which promotes the great purpose of the Federation, the many devoted and talented members of the music clubs have been successful in keeping high standards in all areas of music interests. To name only a few - community service, aiding young musicians by giving scholarship awards, promoting American music and musicians, music therapy and many others.
The Music Clubs continue to provide high quality programs presented by their talented members and guest artists. Because of this, the federation has become an outstanding organization in the community, state and nation.
A Message from the President
MFMC President’s Theme “Music….the Reconciling Melody Of Eternal Love”.
Dear MFMC members, It is with a thankful heart that I write my final “President’s Message” for Counterpoint. Thank you for your support during these past two years.
A president cannot accomplish the work of MFMC single handedly. Certainly I have depended on members of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, including a most skilled parliamentarian. I am thankful for the kind and energetic help of each of our district and club presidents. Even though we have hit some rough spots along the way, we have kept “on track” and I trust that we will finish well on June 30, 2013.
Just as a president cannot accomplish all of the work alone, neither can the Board of Directors. Without functional committee chairs and committee members to execute Board action, progress halts. In some areas we have done well; in others, we could improve. Yet, it is appropriate that I give thanks to those of you who have served on the Finance, Awards, Festivals, Communications, Music Activities, and Bylaws committees. My kudos go out to each of you who inspired us with your leadership in chairing these committees. Your contributions of time, effort, “blood, sweat and tears” have made a great difference! Here are just a few examples of your accomplishments since July 2011: a new set of Bylaws; the addition of High School Piano, Wendell Irish Viola, and Organ Awards (after a hiatus of time when we had no one to chair these awards); the first NFMC dance award to be offered this year in Michigan; a chairman to reinstate and facilitate NFMC Collegiate Audi-tions, Young Artist and Ellis Duo Piano auditions. Our Awards Committee is delighted to offer these award opportunities to young Michigan musicians.
I also want to thank our wonderful Counterpoint Editor, our Meetings and Protocol Coordinator and Nominations Chair, our Honorary Advisory Chair, our Corresponding Secretary, and each MFMC representative to NFMC. You have carried out your responsibilities admirably and capably. What a pleasant experience it has been to work alongside two fabulous district presidents as we planned MFMC conventions. I refer to our 2012 convention in Grand Rapids and our upcoming convention in Auburn Hills. Literally hundreds of hours are required to accomplish a successful convention. All of those little touches that achieve such a warm and welcome effect are due to the efforts and sacrifice of members such as you. Certainly this upcoming convention is no exception. I hope that YOU will attend. National Federation’s President Elect, Michael Edwards, will be our guest speaker. I trust that you will enjoy meeting and hearing him. Dr. Joseph Daniel has planned an outstanding pre convention concert for Thursday, May 17. It will be well worth your time. The committee has many special events in store for you.
As I write this final letter, please be assured of my affection and thankfulness for our shared years of service in MFMC. “Thank You” seems like a meager expression, but it conveys my warm regard for each of you. We share a common bond – “MUSIC……. The Reconciling Melody of ETERNAL LOVE”.
On a personal note, this is a year of great transition for my family. Due to family needs, we will be moving to Texas at the end of my term. Dave and I have enjoyed these past 23 years of living in Michigan. There have been many wonderful moments, interspersed with challenges, but I am thankful that you have been a part of this season. Best wishes for continued success in all of your endeavors…. And remember, I am only an email click or phone call away!!
Tunefully Yours, Connie Randall MFMC President 2011-2013