St. Louis is a city with a rich musical history, and there are many organizations and associations dedicated to preserving and promoting the city's musical heritage. The American Federation of Musicians is one such organization, providing support to musicians in the area since 1862. The St. Louis Blues Society is another, established in 2002 to financially support blues and rhythm & blues artists from St.
Louis in times of need. This organization also works to preserve and perpetuate blues music in and from St. Louis, while encouraging its growth and appreciation. The St. Louis Civic Orchestra is another organization that promotes and preserves the world's best live musical creations.
Founded in 1959, New Music Circle is the oldest organization of its kind, introducing local and regional audiences to the world's most renowned and successful avant-garde composers and performers. Each season, New Music Circle presents vibrant, experimental and avant-garde music influenced by jazz, electronic and classical genres, sometimes along with experimental films or other multimedia artists. New Music Circle has earned a worldwide reputation for maintaining the highest musical standards, regardless of the appeal of individual musical styles. The organization also has a commitment to diversity in programming, audience and outreach. The American Federation of Musicians, St. Louis Blues Society, St.
Louis Civic Orchestra, and New Music Circle are just some of the organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting music in St. Louis. These organizations provide invaluable support to musicians in the area, helping them to improve their craft while also providing educational opportunities for the general public.