Greetings from NANM President
Dr. Uzee Brown, Jr.

My fellow NANM Members and Friends:

After eighty years of existence, the National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc. proudly celebrates its history and traditions as an organization which has become a multi-dimensional, kaleidoscope of rich musical experiences. It has perpetuated respect for the highest standards of music world-wide. Most importantly, it continues to nurture and recognize the musical contributions of African Americans. In the midst of national and international crises of every kind, NANM continues to "Hold On"! These are the results of both its genesis and metamorphosis through its productive but challenging past years. In spite of these challenges, so many great things have occurred and continue to occur in the life of NANM. It is the only national organization founded by African American musicians which has as a basic component of its make-up a commitment to developing young musicians through its Junior, Youth and Collegiate Divisions, and which holds as a part of its on-site convention activities, programs and endeavors which are specifically dedicated to fostering these areas.

NANM has been blessed with leadership given by African Americans who have been at the vanguard of the most fertile musical activity in America. Its membership represents a diverse cross-section of musical enthusiasts from the patron of the arts, studio teacher and church musician, to nationally and internationally acclaimed performing artists, educators composers and researchers. NANM has taken its national convention into scores of cities and communities across the country. In its 80 year history, NANM has awarded over 175 scholarships and financial awards. There is, indeed, much which can be said for the achievements of NANM, but it must not rest on the laurels of past nor present achievements, for there remains so much to be done. As the end of this century approaches, we must redouble efforts to share the wealth of wisdom and experience within this organization with new, young and enthusiastic members who bring fresh ideas and the zeal to continue NANM’s legacy as we endeavor to reach new goals. The National Association of Negro Musicians is postured to face the 21st century with renewed vigor and determination. The age of technology has provided it with the tools to reach broader and more diverse audiences through a network of international communication not previously accessible. These tools should enable NANM to improve efficiency at every level, providing comprehensive information to both its members and those who may wish to know more about this organization. Many vehicles have been put into place which would serve this end. Our National, Regional and Local Membership Coordinators who work closely with the 2nd Vice-president for Branches and the Regional Directors, have made admirable efforts to increase the number of branches and membership of NANM. Public relations activities and media resources are now coordinated by the 1st Vice-president.

I have tenaciously embraced the challenge of recommitting the establishment of the NANM Endowed Scholarship Fund which was initially proposed by past president, Dr. Willis Patterson. Significant progress has been made toward building this fund, but much more is needed. This endeavor must not be taken in small measure. While there are several projects underway which are intended to make affiliation with NANM a more valuable experience for our young people, the competitive scholarship award, given to support outstanding young musicians toward their career objectives, is one of the most enduring and important components of NANM. As we approach the next century, we must give serious attention to its health and continuance. Additionally, as the cost of education increases so should the amount of the scholarship. Few of these things are possible without aggressively working to build the Endowment Fund. We welcome your support and tax deductible contribution to this fund at any time. NANM also proudly sponsors the Brantley Choral Spiritual Arranging Competition annually. We encourage young composers and arrangers to peruse the guidelines for this competition on our web page and submit works which may be considered. A history research project of the National Association of Negro Musicians, conducted by internationally acclaimed musicologist, Dr. Eileen Southern, is nearing completion. We anxiously look forward to procuring the completed manuscript and a publisher for this work. It will be an enduring monument to the activities and contributions of NANM to the world of music.

The 1999 convention in Houston, Texas promises to be exciting, with stimulating workshops and notable performances. More details about this and forthcoming conventions can be found at the NANM website. This year, for the first time in his many years of virtuosic performances worldwide, and his dedicated service as NANM convention accompanist, Joseph Joubert will be presented in recital as NANM’s Gala Concert Artist. Joseph has been critically acclaimed as a pianist by enthusiastic listeners throughout North and South America, Europe and beyond. We anxiously look forward to this recital.