Resources for Music Enthusiasts and Educators
At the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs, we offer a wealth of resources for music enthusiasts, educators, and students. From access to local clubs and teaching studios to scholarship opportunities and competitions, we are dedicated to supporting and celebrating musical talent across Pennsylvania. Join us to connect with a community that shares your passion for music.
2025 PFMC Junior Festival Competitions
Explore the exciting opportunities available through the PFMC Junior Festival Competitions. Below, you'll find key information and resources for each region:
Central Region
- Festivals Competition Information: Access Here
- Application to Register: Access Here
Junior Composers Contest
Although the Application link takes you to the NFMC application, the applicant is advised that the PA State fee is $6 and the Federation Cup fee is $7.
- Application: Information
- Gold Cup Application: Submit Here
- Contact: Deborah Rodgers, Chair
Keystone Tribute Award
The Keystone Tribute Award offers a $600.00 award to a qualifying Collegiate Jr. or Sr. who is studying to teach general music education in a public or private school.
Letter: Read More
- Application: Apply Here
- Contact: Paula Kudelko, Chair
PFMC Presents Awards Annually
In support of the state Federation’s stated purpose, numerous awards and scholarships are presented each year as listed below:
PFMC also contributes funds to the Chautauqua School of Music Scholarships. Many young musicians go on to compete for awards and scholarships given by the National Federation of Music Clubs.
Annual PFMC Awards
In alignment with our mission to support and promote music education, the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs presents a variety of awards and scholarships annually. Additionally, we contribute to the Chautauqua School of Music Scholarships, helping young musicians gain valuable experiences and opportunities. Many of our recipients go on to compete for national awards and scholarships through the National Federation of Music Clubs.
Spotlight on Alexei Aceto
A passionate soloist and collaborator, Alexei Aceto is advancing his musical journey through graduate studies with Arnaldo Cohen at the IU Jacobs School of Music, where he also teaches piano as an Associate Instructor. Alexei's early mentorship under Charis Dimaras at Ithaca College led to his twice winning the IC Concerto Competition. His recent accolades include being named the 2024 Steinway Series Guest Artist at the University of South Florida and a finalist at Chautauqua’s 2021 Piano Competition. Additionally, Alexei was awarded the Pennsylvania Federation-endowed scholarship to study piano at the 2024 Chautauqua Music School.
Local and National Scholarship Opportunities
In addition to state-level scholarships, many individual senior clubs across Pennsylvania hold auditions for their awards and scholarships. These opportunities are available to students from local areas, so be sure to check with your local club for specific information on how to apply.
The National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) Competitions & Awards are also actively promoted by the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs (PFMC). These competitions, sponsored by the NFMC, are organized by age classification:
Junior Division (Under Age 19): Young musicians can audition for awards in piano, instrumental, dance, voice, and composing. NFMC-Awards-2024_Color-Jr
Student/Collegiate Division (Ages 19–25): Scholarships and awards are available to help young artists continue their musical training. NFMC-Awards-2024_Color-SC
Senior Division (Age 26 and Above): The Senior Division offers over $60,000 in awards to performers, composers, Veterans, and disabled or visually impaired musicians. NFMC-Awards-2024_Color-Sr
NFMC Club Awards
How to Participate
Competitions are open to NFMC members, including all members of the PFMC Senior Clubs across Pennsylvania. If you’re not yet a member but wish to participate, you can easily obtain individual membership by completing an Application for Individual Membership. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these prestigious competitions and further your musical career.
Our Prestigious Awards and Competitions
The Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs (PFMC) is proud to be a channel for NFMC in offering a wide range of awards and competitions that celebrate excellence in various musical disciplines. Below, you'll find detailed information and application links for each opportunity. Whether you're an opera performer, composer, or aspiring young artist, there's something here for everyone.
- Alpha Corinne Mayfield Award in Opera Performance
- Angie Greer Music in Poetry Award
- Annual Dance Awards
- Summer Music Centers
- Claire Ulrich Whitehurst Piano Solo Award
- Elizabeth Paris French Horn Award
- Wendell Irish Viola Award
- Information
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NFMC Festivals in Pennsylvania
The National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) Festivals Program is a cornerstone of music education incentives, offering students the chance to perform in front of judges and receive valuable feedback on their performances. Held nationwide, these festivals are open to all NFMC members, providing a unique opportunity to enhance musical skills and foster a love for both American and international music. While not competitive, the program emphasizes personal growth, confidence-building, and the pursuit of excellence in music.
In Pennsylvania, adult members of the Federation can form junior clubs by organizing a group of students. These junior clubs allow students to participate in a variety of Federation events, including the NFMC Festivals. To create a junior club, instructors need to submit an Application for Organization Membership and pay the necessary local and state dues to the Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs Treasurer. The deadline for federating a junior club in Pennsylvania is December 31st. This membership not only grants access to the Festivals but also opens doors to state and national competitions, scholarships, and music camps, offering students a well-rounded musical experience.
Get Started Now
For more information about participating in the NFMC Festivals, forming a junior club, or ensuring your event is covered by our liability insurance, please don't hesitate to reach out. Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs is here to support your musical journey and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started.
