About us

MCC's purpose is to support the arts in Marshall, including performing and visual arts. Its goal is to promote local artists, arts education and the city of Marshall -- bringing people from around the region to experience the arts Marshall has to offer.

Marshall is Music

"Marshall is music. Those of us who live here know that, and we want to help spread the word far and wide," said former President Eric Crump. "Marshall has a lot to be pround of. The Municipal Band is nearly 91 years old. Marshall Philharmonic Orchestra is nearly 50. Marshall Community Chorus is approaching 25. Missouri Valley College music programs are growing. We believe the time is right to build on that foundation."

Marshall is Art

The visual arts don't have the high profile that music does, but there are many talented artists in the community. MCC is committed to supporting local artists by creating opportunities for them to show their work.

MCC has hosted a fall event, Dinner and a Show, that showcases local artists. In 2011, artists were invited not only to show examples of their work but to speak to the audience about what they do and why.

In September 2010, The Marshall Senior Center sponsored its first Art Under the Stars event, an outdoor show that filled the center's parking lot with artists and patrons. MCC applauds the senior center leaders for initiating that annual event.

Events

The organization holds several annual events, including the Bob James Jazz Festival in May, MCC's Craft & Art Fair in March, and Santa Fe Trail Heritage Days in September.  

History

The catalyst for forming the organization was an idea posted to The Marshall Democrat-News website in August 2010.  Someone suggested Marshall should create a jazz festival to honor pianist and artist Bob James, who grew up in Marshall. Mr. James has pledged his support for the effort and has given the organization permission to use his name in conjunction with its first jazz festival. As an ad hoc committee began planning that event, local musicians joined the effort who were seeking organizational support. The group decided to form an organization with a broader mission than supporting just one event.

The organization's board of directors, in addition to Crump, Nolan and King, includes Kathy Green, vice president; Bill Green; and Clyde Williams.