A Message From the IFRM Global Chair
Welcome to the website of IFRM, the International Fellowship of Rotarian Musicians.
Please, DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED by thinking: "Well, I am not a musician, this must not be for me." Au contraire my friend. If you enjoy music, this Rotary Fellowship is for you. Our members come from countries all around the world. The musical skills that range from professional musicians to those who can play a recording on their phone or computer. The common denominator is "we all love and enjoy music." We are a Rotary Fellowship. Fellowships and Rotary Action Groups were designed to help Rotarians connect with other Rotarians outside of their local club around areas of common interest. IFRM was among one of the earliest Fellowships to form.
The IFRM Mission is…
- to promote Rotary Fellowship by encouraging clubs to sing,
- to organize musical activities for performances at all levels of Rotary functions,
- and to support community music organizations and school music programs.
The International Fellowship of Rotarian Musicians provides a world-wide platform that encourages all types of musical performances, be they vocal or instrumental. We have web, Facebook, Twitter, Google group, and other social media connections.
We are present at the Rotary International Conventions, often with a Rotary World Choir and a presence on the Musical Stages of the House of Friendship along with a booth that helps us make music together.
IFRM is an association, but has a separate charitable 501c3 Foundation (IFRM, Inc), which funds projects around the world supporting worthwhile musical projects for youth, seniors, and communities in need.
Our historical roots in Rotary International
The International Fellowship of Rotarian Musicians (IFRM) began in 1972 to "promote and encourage the use and appreciation of music in Rotary Clubs by Rotarians in our society and, thereby, to encourage world understanding." It received "not for profit" status in July 1985 and was incorporated in California (USA) in 2004. In 2007, IFRM, Inc. was formed as a 501c3 Foundation in order to accept tax-deductible gifts from USA donors and to fund projects to promote music literacy throughout the world. IFRM was one of the first Rotary Fellowships.
Over the last four decades, officers and members of the Fellowship have taken a leading role in extending the cultural and educational use of music in Rotary through group singing, musical entertainment, and the fostering of music projects around the world.
IFRM Today
IFRM brings together an international collection of Rotarians, Rotary Alums, Spouses and Friends to explore together the joy of music through participation in musical activities. From listening to performing, IFRM provides a “stage” for engagement in the love of music. We are working on a new Rotary Songbook. Throughout the year, we connect on an active website, (you are here now), on social media, and we even have a zoom virtual choir “IFRM Sings.” Newsletters “Stacatto”, and “Music Notes” will keep you informed about IFRM and its members. So, please consider joining us — a 3-year membership is only $35 which is less than a dollar a month. What a deal, and what an opportunity to meet fellow music loving Rotarians and Friends from around the world.
Please take some time and explore our website. If you love and enjoy music and wish to make and connect with Rotary Friends around the world, IFRM might be the Rotary Fellowship for you.
In Rotary,
Rod Fivelstad
Global Chair International Fellowship of Rotarian Musicians