Musicians Foundation was incorporated on May 8, 1914 in the State of New York by the New York Musicians Club called "The Bohemians." The Club was conceived by Rafael Joseffy in 1907 to "promote good fellowship among members of the musical profession."
As the Club membership grew and funds became available, it was decided to use this money to establish a foundation to provide financial assistance to professional musicians overtaken by misfortune. The purpose of this philanthropic enterprise was set forth in it certificate of incorporation:
"To foster the interests and advance the condition and social welfare of professional musicians and to provide voluntary aid and assistance to them and their families in case of need, all in such manner as may be provided by the by-laws and not inconsistent with the laws of the State of New York or the United States of America."
Over the years, the Musicians Foundation has helped hundreds of musicians and their families. Financial help is viewed as an opportunity to say "Thank you" to those who have given so much to enhance the quality of musical life in our land.