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“Imagine a world in which the major decisions affecting the community are made in the kitchen, rather than in a boardroom; a world where what is central to the workplace is the coming together to break bread, rather than simply to make bread. Imagine this because it is happening here at I.M.A. as we grow this place rooted in women’s relationships. Imagine this because as we continue to work to bring equality, balance and harmony to the world, we are moving toward a place where everyone who comes to The Table is fed.”
– Ann Hackler, I.M.A. co-founder and Executive Director
The Institute for the Musical Arts was founded by Ann Hackler and June Millington in Northern California in 1986 and received its nonprofit status in 1987. It operated its studio and programs from Bodega, California’s historic Old Creamery until 2001 when property was purchased in Western Massachusetts for a permanent facility. The institute’s nonprofit mission is to support women and girls in music and music-related businesses. Rooted in the legacy of progressive equal rights movements, I.M.A.’s development is guided by the visions, needs and concerns of women from a diversity of backgrounds and has grown from the need to nourish ourselves and each other.
The 25-acre estate on which I.M.A. is now located features a house and several barns all built in the early 1800’s. The largest barn has been converted into a recording, performance and teaching facility. The space accommodates a multitude of artistic endeavors and has a seating capacity of 200, a recording chamber that could hold an orchestra, and housing for up to 30 people. In addition to its summer programs for girls, I.M.A. offers concerts and workshops year-round in support of its nonprofit mission which, unless otherwise noted, are open to the public.
We take the concept of “leading from the kitchen” seriously.
Artists are fed before shows, children sit together for every meal during the summer sessions, workshop participants dine and lunch together. Food is prepared on-site and is central to all that we do. Eating well and in community is of the utmost importance at I.M.A. And, if you stop by, no doubt you’ll be invited for tea!
