Photo: Jack Goodman
Founded in 1904, officially incorporated as a non-profit in 1905, and at its current location since 1922, the New Amsterdam Musical Association is among the oldest musical organizations for African-Americans in the United States, and was created for Black musicians excluded from the unions of the early 20th century.
After musicians from NAMA were allowed to join the local union, the organization transformed into more of a social club and is no longer a union or exclusively a members only club but more of a hub for all of the residents of Harlem.
Over time it became not just a musicians’ organisation but a cultural institution, particularly for African-American musicians in New York and the Harlem community.
To this day, NAMA is open to the public for regular Monday night jam sessions and special events. It also offers music lessons (vocal and instrumental), hosts jam sessions and open-mics, community events and performances
New Amsterdam Musical Association
107 W 130th St
New York, NY 10027
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