The Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM)

The Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1965 in Chicago to support and promote innovative, experimental jazz and contemporary music. It provides a platform for musicians to collaborate, explore new sounds, and develop their craft without commercial pressure. The AACM emphasizes artistic independence, education, and cultural expression, fostering a community of talented artists who challenge traditional boundaries. Over time, it has become influential in shaping avant-garde jazz and encouraging diverse, original music within and beyond the jazz genre.