Mission

Music with a Mission (MWAM) exists to support the creative work of acclaimed composer, conductor and performer Wilson Gault Somers while benefitting causes that support those most in need locally, regionally and nationally.

Purpose

MWAM provides organizational support for Mr. Somers that includes strategic and operational planning; outreach, publicity and public relations; development of public and private sector relations, collaboration and partnerships; fund raising and capacity building.

Structure

MWAM is a Delaware corporation that maintains not-for-profit status as described in Section 501 (c) (3) of the US Internal Revenue Code. According to its by-laws, MWAM is composed of a Board of Directors, an advisory council and additional volunteers. There are no paid employees; however, MWAM does pay for the services of third party outside contractors, including Mr. Somers, for certain creative and developmental activities and supplies.

Sources and Uses of Funding

MWAM is funded through diverse revenue streams including a broad-based fundraising effort, fees from performance and the sale of the many products containing Mr. Somers’ creative works. The vast majority of funds raised and controlled by MWAM is used either to fund the creative composition activities of Mr. Somers or to develop, produce and present public performances by Mr. Somers in which he conducts and performs his own work and that of others. These activities may include the procurement of venues, business and performance supplies, payment to performers (independent contractors) and public relations, audio/video production and distribution, promotional and marketing activities. A small portion of the funds are used to maintain necessary administrative support, licensing, etc. As stated above, a portion of proceeds from performance events are donated to important public causes as determined by the MWAM leadership.

General Organization Vision

MWAM will assist and support Mr. Somers in a linear, focused, and sustainable process to fund and proliferate his collective creative works and related efforts. This includes the planning, development and presentation of Mr. Somers’ own performances as well as the commissioning, publishing and performance of his works by others.

Board of Directors

Pete Booker                                     Chair

Richard Kirk                               Vice Chair

Grace Hobson                                   Secretary

Donald Hobson                                 Secretary

Lisa Jenifer-Robinson                       Treasurer

Susan Booker                                       

Judy C. Campbell

Advisory Committee

Wilson Gault Somers                          Creative Director

Joan Somers                                        Design & Presentation

Joseph A. Louden                                Composition & Presentation Consultant

Reverend Canon Lloyd S. Casson     Spiritual & Cultural Adviser