california_traditional_music_society

The California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of traditional Folk Music, dance and related folk arts of America's diverse cultural heritage by broadening public involvement with Folk Music.

Through its year-round activities, CTMS furthers its primary objectives:

Public Education: To increase public understanding of the value and variety of Folk Music and dance. To increase what is written about Folk Music in order to document its cultural and historical significance, preserve traditional methods, and highlight emerging trends.

Clearinghouse of Information: To provide a bridge between folk artists and organizations and the general public.

Musicianship: To support master folk artists through performance and teaching opportunities. To encourage broad "hands on" involvement among the general public in playing traditional Folk Music instruments, folk dancing, folk singing, and learning and telling folk stories.

Professional Development: To strengthen the effectiveness of Folk Music and dance organizations through training, technical assistance consultation, and conferences.

Advocacy: To serve as an advocate for the role of Folk Music and dance in the art world. To assist the media, educators, and private and governmental providers in understanding the functions and achievements of Folk Music and dance.