Compass Inc is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 2007, led by a diverse volunteer board of local musicians, music educators, and arts advocates. The mission of Compass is to provide aspiring musicians, singers and songwriters with educational, promotional, networking and showcasing opportunities to help them reach their full musical and artistic potential. Since its inception, Compass h
as helped to foster a musical community in mid-Missouri by hosting summer music camps, various workshops, the annual Local Fest, songwriter circles, and musician showcases for adults and youth. After 14 years of operation, Compass is ready to take the leap and have our musical family housed in a brick and mortar establishment! We have found the right space and now, it’s time for renovations to get it ready for camps, concerts, lessons and so much more programming! We believe music education and opportunities should be accessible to everyone, regardless of race, gender, age or financial status. At the Compass Music Center, members of our community will have access to music education, showcasing opportunities, recording services, rehearsal space and a music library. Through a scholarship program, participants of low income status would receive music education with zero cost to them. With a long term 4000 square foot rental space secured, our next step is to renovate and make the Center a visible reality. Renovations will include: flooring, wall construction, air filtration, electrical wiring, soundproofing, painting, and creating spaces comprising a recording studio, private lesson rooms, classrooms and a listening room stage. Compass Music Center’s listening room would be the first of its kind in Columbia, offering a dedicated substance-free space where musicians and listeners of all ages can feel safe to make and listen to music. After nearly 15 years of operating in various locations, we are ready to have our own space where we can offer year round programming. Compass Music Center will serve more than 1000 persons annually, including an estimated 400 youth participants of private lessons, classes and summer music camps, 100 local musicians, singers and songwriters who participate in music showcases, song circles and workshops, as well as hundreds of family members and other attendees that attend events at the center. The Compass Music Center will be more than a space to learn, make and hear music, it will be a healing center, a safe haven and a sacred community space for everyone. Board of Directors: Phylshawn Johnson- Chair, Ruth Acuff- Vice Chair, Bruce Barkelew-Treasurer, Linda Bott- Secretary Zach Harrison- Member, Tony Lotven- Member
