User:Amyfing/University Musical Society

The University Musical Society (UMS) is a not-for-profit arts presenting organization located on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. While UMS is affiliated with the University of Michigan and is a regular collaborator with many university units, UMS supports itself from ticket sales, foundation and government grants, corporate and individual contributions, and endowment income.

History
UMS grew from a group of local university and townspeople who gathered together for the study of Handel's Messiah. Led by Professor Henry Frieze and conducted by Professor Calvin Cady, the group assumed the name The Choral Union. Their first performance of Handel's Messiah was in December of 1879, and this oratorio has since been performed by the UMS Choral Union annually. As a large number of Choral Union members also belonged to the University, the University Musical Society was established in December 1880. UMS included the Choral Union and University Orchestra, and throughout the year presented a series of concerts featuring local and visiting artists and ensembles.

Since its first season in 1880, UMS has expanded greatly and now presents the very best from the full spectrum of the performing arts, including internationally renowned recitalists and orchestras, dance and chamber ensembles, jazz and world music performers, and opera and theatre. Through educational endeavors, commissioning of new works, youth programs, artist residencies and other collaborative projects, UMS has maintained its reputation for quality, artistic distinction and innovation. UMS now hosts approximately 75 performances and more than 100 educational events each season.