ASSOCIATION of CLASSICAL MUSICIANS and ARTISTS
ACMA is a collaborative, vibrant community of people with a passion for music and the arts. Our primary mission is to inspire people through music and to continue building this community. We accomplish this objective through regularly scheduled recitals, social gatherings, and our Carnegie Hall concerts. We believe that all dedicated musicians, not just world-class professionals, should have the opportunity to perform in public.
ACMA was founded in September 2007 by Alberto De Salas to provide opportunities for dedicated musicians to play solo and ensemble works in front of an audience. Starting in 2009, an annual (in some years, semiannual), auditioned concert at Carnegie Hall became part of our program. We have regularly performed in both Weill Recital Hall and Zankel Hall. Our original small group of three has turned into a thriving community of over 3000 musicians from many different occupations, backgrounds, and nationalities.
- For those who love music -- but do not sing or play an instrument -- ACMA provides a forum to interact directly with other musicians and music lovers, via a steady series of opportunities to see and listen to live performances.
- For the beginner or intermediate amateur musician who might be on the cusp of performing in public, we provide a supportive, non-critical environment in which to take the daunting but amazing first step onto the performance stage.
- For the advanced amateur or professional-level musician, we connect a network of fellow musicians to an appreciative audience, encourage more and more challenging repertoire, and provide many wonderful performance opportunities.
- Technical perfection is not our main objective. Rather, we focus on the celebration and presentation of great works of music with enthusiasm and appreciation. We always encourage everyone to continue on their musical journey, wherever it may take them.
"The only love affair I have ever had was with music." Maurice Ravel
CORPORATE STATUS
ACMA is a non-profit corporation in the state of New York and currently holds both federal and state tax-exempt status.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As an incorporated non-profit organization, we hold quarterly meetings of our volunteer Board of Directors to discuss annual goals and shape our short and long-term vision. Current members:
ACMA Orchestra
The orchestra gives ACMA members the opportunity to perform orchestral repertoire at ACMA's annual special events.
Christopher North
Principal Conductor
Christopher North is a composer (Film, Theater & Dance), conductor (Hollywood Chamber Orchestra debut), songwriter (eclectic albums, songs for Films & children’s TV), multi-instrumentalist (Broadway, Carnegie Hall, Newport Folk Festival, Grammy award-winning recordings) and Asst. Prof. at Berklee.
Neil Prufer
Executive Director
Neil Prufer is a pianist, composer, and passionate advocate of musical education. During the day he works as an ear, nose and throat doctor.
Alberto De Salas
Founder and Musical Director
Alberto is our Artistic Director and the creator of ACMA in 2007. He plays the piano and conducts the orchestra.
Joseph Castelli
Treasurer
Joe is a founding member of ACMA. He plays the piano and serves as ACMA's treasurer.
Simon Yau
Digital Director and Website Manager
Simon joined ACMA in 2008. He plays the piano, runs the ACMA website, and works as a software engineer.
Clarisse Valbon
Director at Large
Clarisse is a composer and violinist. She serves as the concert master on the ACMA orchestra.
Mayumi Lehr
Education Director
Mayumi Lehr is a pianist, clarinetist, and composer. She has been teaching piano for more than 40 years. She loves to play the piano, specially ensemble pieces.
Consuelo Karoly
Digital Designer
Once a professional opera singer, Consuelo is now a Web Designer/Graphic Designer, and creator of the current ACMA website. Her design business is bluejaygraphics.com
Amanda Zory Hick
Director at Large
Amanda is a professional opera singer and runs the social and outreach programs at ACMA.
Chris Wilson
Director at Large
Chris is a pianist and works as a project manager. He runs the social and outreach programs at ACMA.
Randall Trombley
Director at Large
Randall is a banker by profession, but regularly performs as a vocalist with the Gramacy Street Band.