NFMC- National Federation of Music Clubs

The National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) is a large, non-profit philanthropic and educational organization dedicated to promoting American music and musicians. Membership includes over 90,000 senior, student, and junior members, including music teachers, professionals, and music enthusiasts of all ages.

AKFMC- Alaska Federation of Music Clubs

State organizations within the NFMC serve as a way for local music clubs and organizations within a state to work together and with the national organization. These state federations help further the NFMC's goals within their respective states, supporting music education, performance opportunities, and the advancement of American music. AKFMC is under the umbrella of the national organization.

KCPMT- Kenai Central Peninsula Music Teachers

Alaska’s first (and currently only) local club affiliated with NFMC . Local Clubs are the primary grassroots units of the NFMC. They are formed by local music teachers, students, professionals, and enthusiasts who share a passion for music and a desire to promote it in their community. 45 states have a State Federation of Music Clubs that operates under the umbrella of the NFMC. Each state federation serves as a central hub for the local clubs within that state, coordinating activities, events, and resources.

Non-affiliated and yet frequently overlapping:

MTNA- Music Teachers National Association, a non-profit which provides resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for music teachers nationwide. Over 17,000 members nationwide.

AMTA- Alaska Music Teachers Association, under the umbrella of MTNA

NCTM - Nationally Certified Teacher of Music - a certification offered through MTNA . The NCTM designation signals a commitment to the highest professional standards in music teaching, enhancing a teacher's reputation and credibility within the music community and with potential students. Contact Alaska state certification chairperson Lynda Lybeck-Robinson for further information.

1. Connection in Isolation: Even though we’re separated by mountains, tundra, and sea, membership creates a supportive professional network where teachers can exchange ideas, resources, and encouragement.

2. Access to National Programs: Through our affiliation with NFMC) and the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), members gain access to nationally recognized events, certifications, competitions—without leaving Alaska.

3. Annual Adjudication: Our Gold Cup Festival provides students statewide with high-level performance adjudication, both in-person and online, helping them work toward gold cups, scholarships, and national awards no matter their location.

4. Professional Growth: Members are supported in, and have opportunities to, present, lead, and participate in workshops and teacher training tailored to rural and remote teaching environments.

5. Shared Resources: From repertoire suggestions to digital teaching tools, members can pool knowledge and materials that are especially valuable in areas with limited access to music stores or in-person instruction.

6. Inspiration & Belonging: Belonging to a state-wide music club means you’re not teaching alone. You’re part of a collective that understands the unique challenges of Alaska and celebrates the creative triumphs that emerge from it.

7. Advertising/Exposure: Your picture and bio on our website helps potential students to find the perfect fit for their musical vision--- and that may be you

Do you, did you, or will you teach music? If you are an Alaska resident, you need only to be an active, retired, or potential instrumental or voice teacher to join KCPMT/AKFMC.

Access to Nationally Recognized Festivals

Through our affiliation with the National Federation of Music Clubs, students can participate in the annual Gold Cup Festival—an opportunity for adjudicated performance and long-term goal setting. Students earn points and awards that recognize consistent progress and excellence.

1. High-Quality Feedback from Adjudicators
   Whether attending in person or submitting online, students receive constructive, professional feedback from experienced adjudicators—helping them grow in skill and confidence.

2. Performance Opportunities
   Membership opens the door for students to perform in local and statewide events, even from remote areas, building stage presence and pride in their musical accomplishments.

3. Exposure to a Broader Musical Community
   Students connect—virtually or in person—with peers across Alaska who are also learning and performing, giving them a sense of belonging and excitement beyond their individual studio.

4. Motivation through Recognition
   Programs like the Gold Cup award system provide tangible goals and a sense of achievement that can inspire students to stay committed and passionate about their musical studies.

5. Teacher Development = Student Growth
   As teachers pursue continuing education, certifications, and mentorship through the organization, students benefit from more informed, creative, and connected instruction.

The annual dues for Senior Club membership are $15, which covers the teacher’s membership. Junior Club dues are $25 and include registration for up to 16 students, making them eligible to participate in adjudications and competitions.

If you have more than 16 students, simply add $1.50 for each additional student to your total fees. In summary, the minimum cost is $40 for 16 students or fewer. Any student beyond that will increase the total by $1.50 each. All membership fees must be paid by check.

If you are a Senior member you are welcome to attend all our meetings, workshops and presentations. In addition, your photo, bio and contact information, should you wish, will be featured on our Meet the Team page. If you later decide you want to involve your students, you have the option to add the Junior Club Membership.

If you’re certain you’d like to become a member and register students for AKFMC events, follow these steps:

1. Fill out the membership form by clicking Join Us.

2. Pay your membership dues (Senior and Junior Club Dues) by mailing a check to:
   AKFMC Treasurer
   50401 Byrd Ave
   Kenai, AK 99611

3. Buy a Federated Bulletin to know the repertoire and rules.

4. That’s it! Once you’re a member, you’ll be expected to attend our hybrid meetings to help plan upcoming events.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out through our contact form. We’re happy to help!

If your area doesn’t currently offer a festival through the Alaska Federation of Music Clubs, you can request to add one! Just fill out our contact form to receive detailed instructions.

To get started, you’ll need:

1. An active AKFMC membership

2. At least two participating teachers in your area

We’re excited to help you bring more musical opportunities to your community!