Who We Are and What We Do

The New Jersey Guitar & Mandolin Society (NJGMS) is a 501c3 organization established in 2002 as a way to share the talent available around New Jersey.

We hold eight meetings per season, September-April, as well as a post-season Guitar Night in May. The monthly meetings are always on a weeknight from 6:00-7:30 (food is served). Meetings are structured with time to socialize, share news, and for any member to perform for the group; this is highly encouraged. The core of the meeting is a mini lecture-recital presented by a featured guest artist. This is an intimate setting in which the artist and members interact with each other.

The meetings have a definite structure, yet have a casual atmosphere. They take place in a music classroom in Hackensack, convenient to several major highways. If you look at our Calendar and Professional Artist Members pages, you will see the amazing talent we sponsor each season. NJGMS is not a performing organization. However, we welcome members to connect or rehearse at the beginning of the meeting. Meetings are free for members, a $10 donation is requested from the general public.

NJGMS is a self-supported via membership dues, donations, funds from events, and sales of our own products (shirts, guitar/mandolin picks, and other promotional items). Membership comprises people from diverse backgrounds, ages, and abilities. Our members are interested in classical, jazz, international, and traditional American Music. We welcome anyone to join.

We assist in educational endeavors, especially for schools that want to begin or enhance programs related to guitar and mandolin. This can be anything from inviting students to our meetings/events, offering free advice and more.

New Jersey Guitar & Mandolin Society sponsors Guitar Night at Trumpets Jazz Club and Restaurant in Montclair, NJ. At this event we promote young, up-and-coming musicians and invite unique guest musicians.

We publish the NJGMS Newsflyer each May, which recaps society events of the season. This is a great way to stay in touch with NJGMS happenings if you want to support us but cannot attend the meetings.

NJGMS was founded by Michael Lemma, who serves as its Director on a volunteer basis.

Board of Advisors: Gabriel Nevola, Joel Perry, Tim Lee.