The Alabama Federation of Music Clubs convened for its 97th Annual Convention on April 19-20 in the Mary G. Hardin Center for the Cultural Arts in downtown Gadsden, Ala. hosted by the Gadsden Music Club. The theme was “Music is Alive in Gadsden.”

Troy Music Study Club delegates were Jerry and Betty Spann who are both Life Members.

Mrs. Bobbye Guyton, president of Alabama Federation of Music Clubs for 2011-2013 presided at each business session when reports were given by AFMC officers, AFMC division chairmen, board members, chairmen and committee members serving National Federation of Music Clubs and AFMC club presidents. Troy’s report was given by Betty Spann for Dovie Cutchen, president of Troy’s club.

An organ recital was given in Gadsden First United Methodist Church Friday afternoon presented by Catherine Heeman, Mary Vick AFMC Student/Collegiate Audition winner, AFMC /Sarah Caldwell Lee Award ( First Place). Following the recital, a memorial service was held for the AFMC deceased members in 2012-2013. This was coordinated by Bill Peoples, AFMC chaplain.

Friday night’s banquet honored AFMC Club presidents with Jan Hill, Alabama Representative NFMC Board as Master of Ceremonies. She introduced Carolyn Nelson, president of the NFMC who was the guest speaker. Nelson installed the new AFMC officers for 2013-2015. Dinner music was provided by Etowah Youth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Michael Gagliardo. After the banquet, a recital of seven of the AFMC Junior and Senior/Collegiate Audition winners was given.

On Saturday morning, AFMC past presidents enjoyed a breakfast together at the Hampton Inn where most delegates stayed. During Saturday morning’s session, another audition winner was presented in recital.

Not only did the convention attendants have reports, business, and wonderful music, there were also door prizes and a silent auction, which took in more than $800to go toward the AFMC Scholarships.

The convention closed Saturday with a buffet luncheon honoring AFMC officers and Division Chairmen with Margie Garrett, AFMC treasurer as Master of Ceremonies. Citations and awards were given and the assembly sang the Benediction, “The Gift of Song.”

This article was submitted by the Troy Music Study Club.