CMFA (Columbia Music Festival Association)

CMFA (Columbia Music Festival Association) is a nonprofit arts organization in Columbia, SC, dedicated to advancing the performing arts through education, presentation, and community engagement. Founded in 1897 as a partnership between local government and civic leaders, CMFA serves as a vital arts council and resource for the Midlands region. It supports a wide range of artistic initiatives, including music education, youth ensembles, concert series, and community performances, with a mission to educate, develop, and promote the performing arts among local residents. The organization operates the CMFA ArtSpace at its historic 914 Pulaski Street location and hosts over 24,000 visitors annually across its events and programs. With a 4.00 rating from 11 reviews, CMFA is recognized for its enduring commitment to cultural enrichment in the Columbia community.

The organization traces its origins to the Dertheck Music Club of 1897 and has evolved from a regional music consortium into a broad-based arts support agency. Over the decades, CMFA has maintained a strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility while expanding its role as an incubator for individual artists and emerging arts groups. It has long been a steward of musical heritage in the area, establishing the Orchestra School in 1939 and launching the Artist Concert Series in the 1930s. Under the leadership of music director Hans Schwieger in the 1930s, CMFA developed a 500-voice children’s choir and presented full orchestral performances, reinforcing its legacy as a driver of civic and artistic life in Columbia.

Located on Pulaski Street, CMFA’s headquarters sits just a short distance from the Columbia train station and Huger Street, with Gervais Street and the Confederate Printing Plant nearby. The site is within walking distance of several major roads and public landmarks, anchoring its presence in the heart of the city’s historic Congaree Vista district.

While specific score strengths are not listed, CMFA’s longstanding presence since 1897 reflects deep community roots and sustained relevance in SC’s cultural landscape. Its enduring partnerships with the City of Columbia and Richland County underscore its trusted role in fostering arts access and economic vitality.

As a cornerstone of Columbia’s arts scene, CMFA continues to cultivate creativity and connection through music and performance, enriching the city’s cultural identity for generations.

Services:

• Community Resource Management
• Dance Training Programs
• Event Coordination
• Fine Arts Council Services
• Fundraising
• Professional Ballet Performances
• Season Memberships
• Studio Rentals