UMS (University Musical Society)

Mission: To inspire individuals and enrich communities by connecting audiences and artists in uncommon and engaging experiences.

Housed on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, UMS is one of the oldest performing arts presenters in the country. In 2014, UMS was selected as a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, the nation’s highest public artistic honor, awarded annually by the president of the United States at the White House.

More than 700 individuals dedicate countless hours and endless energy to support the success of UMS. From performance ushers and singers in the UMS Choral Union to student interns and community members who help oversee and implement UMS programs, volunteers donate an estimated 45,000 hours a year in support of UMS.

UMS contributes to a vibrant cultural community in Southeast Michigan by presenting approximately 60-75 music, dance, and theater performances and over 100 free educational activities each season. UMS also commissions and produces new work, sponsors artist residencies, and organizes collaborative projects with local, national, and international partners.

Learning is core to UMS’s mission, and it is our joy to provide creative learning experiences for our entire community. Each season, we offer a spectrum of dynamic, arts-focused activities focusing on K-12 students and teachers, teens, university students and faculty, families, adults, and UMS audiences. We exist to create a spark in people of all ages and backgrounds, to offer access and opportunities to explore new ideas and experiences and to instill a lifelong passion for creativity and the performing arts.