Established in Houston in 1986, the Foundation for Modern Music had as its original mission the making of high quality recordings of significant concert music by 20th Century composers, with a particular emphasis on American composers. Beginning in 1999 under the artistic direction of composer/pianist Robert Avalon, the Foundation also focused on building audiences and public support for contemporary music in the classical tradition through concerts, educational outreach, and encouraging and supporting young composers. Today, FMM is Houston’s presenting leader for this type of music.

During the 2002-2003 season, the Foundation produced its first Music of Today series of well-attended public concerts of contemporary composers, as performed by some of Houston's best musicians. Additionally, the Foundation presented a Friday evening concert of American music at Wigmore Hall (London's top recital hall) early in 2002 – that concert was very well received and brought critical attention to Houston as a growing center for new music. At the same time, Avalon developed a series of highly successful composers' workshops at several local high schools.

Though under a different heading, our Music of Today concerts have continued each season since 2002, bringing new music and many world premieres to venues in Houston. With local, national and international participating composers and performers (including several Pulitzer Prize winners) the Foundation continues its commitment of bringing high quality programs to the Greater Houston area and beyond.

In spite of Robert Avalon's tragic and untimely death in April, 2004, the Foundation continued to pursue his concerts and educational outreach, with artistic direction from Avalon protégé Rodolfo Morales, respected soprano Tracy Rhodus, and the dynamic young pianist Adam Tendler. As an added feature of the 2005-2006 season, we launched the Robert Avalon Competition for Young Composers which now has been expanded to include different categories.

In collaboration with Flamárt (Featuring Latin American Music and Arts) we presented our first full Latin American Music concert in Zilkha Hall, celebrating modern Latin American art music under the direction of baritone and dancer Raúl Orlando Edwards. A consummate performer and visionary, Edwards’ Flamárt has become a part of the Foundation’s programs and he now serves as the Foundation’s current Artistic Director.

Thus, with major support from the Houston Endowment, the Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts, the Brown Foundation, and the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance, valued collaborations with arts organizations and loyal supporters, we remain dedicated to carrying on Robert Avalon’s vision of a vigorous and diverse life for contemporary classical music.