What even is Federation?

The NFMC Festival Program, organized by the National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC), is a nationwide music event designed to promote musical growth and performance excellence. Unlike competitions, NFMC Festivals provide a non-competitive environment

• where musicians of all ages and skill levels receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators.

Participants perform in a variety of categories, including piano, voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, organ, composition, and theory. The festival is structured to encourage consistent musical development, with students advancing through different levels of difficulty as they improve their skills. Each performance is evaluated based on technique, musicality, and interpretation, with participants receiving a rating instead of a ranking.

One of the most distinctive features of the NFMC Festival Program is the Gold Cup Award System. Students earn Festival Points based on their ratings, which accumulate over multiple years. When they reach a certain number of points, they receive a Gold Cup Trophy to recognize their dedication and progress.

NFMC Festivals are held annually at the local, state, and national levels, with thousands of students participating across the United States. The program is open to students of independent music teachers, schools, and music studios, making it one of the largest and most inclusive music festival programs in the country.

By fostering a love for music and providing structured performance opportunities, the NFMC Festival Program helps musicians build confidence, refine their skills, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

How to participate?

Your teacher must be a member of the National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) for you to participate in the festival. Student enrollment typically takes place around early January, so it’s important to check with your teacher for deadlines. If you need more details about the festival, your teacher will have all the necessary information.