Founded in 1916
Federated in 1919 with
Pennsylvania Federation of Music Clubs and National Federation of Music Clubs
Our Mission
The object of this club shall be to acquire a broader knowledge of
music and musical literature, for the mutual improvement of its members, and to promote in the Norristown area a greater love
and appreciation of music.
HISTORY
The Octave Club of Norristown was founded in 1916 by Marion G. Spangler
of Collegeville, Pennsylvania. She was an instrumentalist, singer, teacher, choral director, and the granddaughter of the
founder of Ursinus College.
The club began as a women's chorus, but quickly expanded to study various aspects of music,
using the talents of members to lecture and perform in ensembles or as soloists to illustrate the topic of the program.
Subsidiary
groups such as the Past Presidents Assembly, the Musicians Club, the Women's Chorus, and the Junior Octave Club were formed.
Awards and scholarships for young musicians were instituted and a piano and violin competition for Junior High School age
students was established.
PROGRAMS
During its long history the Club presented programs, fall through spring.
The programs featured aspiring young artists as well as club members and well-established artists. Distinguished performers
over the years have included Nelson Eddy, baritone: Jose Iturbi, pianist: Robert Elmore, organist: Vincent and Dorothea Persichetti,
composer and pianists: Jane Shaulis, mezzo soprano: and the Curtis String Quartet.
Becoming a Member
Those interested in the Junior Octave Club for young musicians age
5 thru 18, please email director at octaveclub19401@lycos.com
 |


Organization News
2009-2010 Season (check back for updates)
The Octave Club of Norristown has closed after ninety-three years of existence. Unfortunately, over the past decade there
has been a diminishing audience at the meetings. Too often there were only a handful of members present when there would
be marvelous talented musicians performing. The remaining board members could no longer justify spending the time and effort
in organizing programs. The Junior Octave Club will continue to operate for the forseeable future. Thank you for your understanding.
 |