ALCM is a strong and successful service and professional organization with approximately 1,500 members, dedicated to the cause of strengthening the ministry of music in the Lutheran Church. It serves through a wide range of publications, conferences, and local, regional, and national events. ALCM is widely recognized as a significant force in Lutheran church music. ALCM's national office is locate
d on the campus of Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. The board of directors meets for one face-to-face meeting annually and communicates regularly throughout the year via conference calls. ALCM is governed by its constitution (bylaws), most recently amended at the August, 2009 biennial meeting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Membership in ALCM is drawn from all major Lutheran bodies and is open to all church musicians, full-time and part-time, and to others who share the goals of the body. ALCM goals include:
Strengthening our Lutheran liturgical heritage
Defining and supporting the role of the church musician, full-time and part-time
Espousing professional standards
Encouraging spiritual growth
Fostering professional exchange
Guidelines for employment
Advocating college and seminary training in liturgy and music
Strengthening professional relationships between clergy and musicians
It has been estimated conservatively by those familiar with Lutheran church attendance statistics that the ALCM members who actively lead church music each week touch the lives of nearly a half million individuals each month. Therefore, the chief goal of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians remains the impetus given to each member to excel in the exalted task of leading members of the Body of Christ in praise of their Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier.
