The JMS may be the oldest music society in the country, but that doesn't mean it's old-fashioned and fuddy-duddy. Since 1902 it's been giving the Johannesburg community enormous pleasure, presenting some of the freshest and newest talents from Europe and America, as well as giving the best and brightest of South African a chance to perform to an extremely discriminating audience.

It was founded by two enthusiastic amateurs over 100 years ago, and since then has maintained its high standards without pause, even continuing its activities during the two World Wars and also during the difficult years of sanctions and boycotts. Some historic names have been associated with the Society: the Earl of Athlone served as Presiddent, Sir Lionel Philips was Vice-President, and Major-General Baden-Powell was an early patron of the JMS. Some of the great names the JMS has presented are pianists Shura Cherkassky, Alicia de Larrocha and Andras Schiff, singers Elly Ameling, Edda Moser and Gerard Souzay, double bassist Gary Karr and the famed Tokyo String Quartet. In addition, many of South Africa's most talented performers have been introduced to the music-loving public through the Society's concerts: Adolph Hallis, Yonty Solomon, Manuel Escorcia, Elsie Hall and Werner Nel are just some of the fine South African musicians who have played to JMS audiences. Indeed, many people who are now considered some of the world's greatest performers played for JMS as young and untested unknowns.

Members of the JMS are still privileged to hear some of the world's most exciting artists at prices that are a fraction of what concerts would cost in Europe or America. The support of the many Members, Friends, Sponsors and Advertisers keeps a vibrant and important tradition of music-making alive.

The Johannesburg Musical Society celebrated its 100th birthday in 2002 and looks forward to a second century of fine music-making with vitality and enthusiam!