JULIUS & ESTHER STULBERG COMPETITION INC

The Stulberg Competition promotes excellence in string instrument performance by gifted young artists under the age of twenty. We provide performance and educational opportunities for young musicians through our Competition, Master Classes, and Education Outreach/Community Engagement programs. We seek to assist young musicians in preparing for their performance careers and/or college studies, while providing exceptional musical experiences for diverse audiences.

The Stulberg continues to be guided by the strategic map, created by the board of directors working under the guidance of TSI Consulting Partners Inc in 2012. That Strategic Plan identifies four areas of priority:

A. Continue to Improve the Competition Experience and Value
B. Expand and Strengthen the Stulberg's Reputation and Visibility
C. Expand and Diversify Funding to Support Growth and Sustainability
D. Strengthen Organizational Effectiveness

The Stulberg is currently engaged in a new Strategic Planning Process, facilitated by Dr. Peter Dams of Dams & Associates. Completion is anticipated in early 2019.

The Stulberg's board of directors provides critical professional expertise and financial support. Board members are community leaders with expertise in finance, law, marketing, fund development, music education/performance, technology, and business. The Stulberg's part-time executive director (Margaret Hamilton) brings over 30 years of experience in music, education and arts administration. Important IT resources include Acceptd (online application/audition system), GiftWorks donor software and QuickBooks financial software. In addition to printed materials and advertisements, the Stulberg uses internet resources such as its web site, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Constant Contact. Other valuable resources include ONEPlace, Cultural Data Project, Epic Center, partner organizations, Discover Kalamazoo, Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo, and American String Teachers Association. Annual financial reviews are conducted by Flegal & Melnik of Portage, MI.

The Stulberg celebrates 44 years in 2018-19, a notable record of longevity. Its roster of laureates and judges reflect luminaries in the musical world. Recent accomplishments include record numbers of applications (over 200 in 2018) and attention from NPR's From the Top, which broadcast a documentary-style program in October 2018, based on its coverage of the 2018 Competition.

The Stulberg is currently engaged in a strategic planning process, facilitated by Dams & Associates. Completion is anticipated in early 2019. Future goals will include growing the donor base, expanding corporate sponsorships, revitalizing planned giving program, establishing an alumni network, and increasing performance opportunities for medalists.