Our History

Following its initial foundation, organizational structure definition, and mission commitment the Music Club settled into a phase of long-term expansion in several ways.  More subgroups were added as members initiated new subgroups expanding the available musical genres to include Doo Wop, Country, Rock ‘n’ Roll and much more.  Currently there are 6 bands and 8 vocal subgroups in the Club.   

Another significant change in the role the Music Club plays in the SCG performing arts was the introduction of Cimarron Center performances.  CAM Activities brought in some professional entertainers to perform in the Cimarron Club room.  Ken Pierick coordinated the shows for CAM. In 2009, at the request of CAM, the Music Club took over the sponsorship of the venue which was later renamed the Cimarron Nightclub. It very much lives up to the Nightclub name in that it seats less than 90 patrons and has an up-close-and-personal feel.  The Nightclub activity put the Music Club in the business of sponsoring outside professional entertainment for the community.  About 12 shows are produced each year.  In addition, the Cimarron Nightclub experience was expanded to 3 or 4 shows a year at the larger Sonoran Plaza venue.  Those shows are known as “The Grand Cabaret”.  

Over the years there has been a dramatic increase in the number of performances by the Music Club.  In 2019 the Music Club sponsored 30 separate shows and concerts totaling 50 performances.  Our membership has grown considerably as well.  

Given the number of shows that the Music Club presents, it is crucial that adequate off-stage support is available to meet the show requirements for audio, lights, stage management, ushers and more.  The Music Club is self-sufficient in that regard.  It has kept pace by acquiring appropriate technology and working with tech support volunteers to make sure each show has the support necessary for a high-quality production.  Facilities management to schedule rehearsals and performances is also an important planning function in support of all Music Club events.  

The membership annually elects the Board of Directors of the Music Club which exercises overall fiscal and organizational responsibilities for the club and oversees committees that assist them in carrying out their work. Without these dedicated Board and committee volunteers the club could not fulfill its mission enhancing living in Grand with music. 

The “Sonoran Sounds” women’s chorus and the “Chorale”, an auditioned subset of the Grand Singers, were started by Jim Flom.  Today’s SCG women’s chorus is called the “Desert Divas” which evolved from the earlier group.  The “Chorale” remains an integral part of the current Grand Singers Chorus.

A Good Neighbor Council was initiated to make local charitable donation recommendations.   The first donation was a contribution to Dysart Schools for musical instruments.  This laid the foundation for the formation of the Glendale Community College Endowment Fund which was initiated by Jim Flom.  That Endowment Fund has grown to about $75,000 from Music Club donations and has been used to provide scholarships for students majoring in music at that college.  The annual recipients are invited to participate in the Music Club’s Classical Concert which is held in March.

Bill Fedor volunteered to be Music Club president.  Many Music Club members participated in the Drama & Comedy Club’s first Variety show in February.  That fall the Music Club produced the first Celebration of Music which became the annual keystone musical variety concert of the Music Club. 

It was decided that the Grand Singers would schedule two annual concerts, one in the spring and a Holiday Concert in December.  The Music Club membership grew to 78 registered members. 

Grand Singers community chorus and Grand Sounds band were formed.  Both groups participated in the first SCG Veteran’s Day Celebration.  In December, the Grand Singers gave their first concert sung by 41 resident singers.  At intermission there were selections by the Grand Sounds band.

Formation of the Music Club as a recognized Chartered Club in SCG.  First Board of Directors with Pat Martin as president.