The New Mexico Music Commission

The New Mexico Music Commission is made up of a diverse cross-section of citizens of our state who represent all facets of our musical community: education, performance, presenting, recording, and support services. As is befitting New Mexico, the Commission embraces and reflects all of the musical genres that grace our state's multicultural tableau. All commissioners are unpaid volunteers, appointed by the Governor.

The New Mexico Music Commission was initially created in April 2005, by an executive order by then Governor Richardson. It was codified into state statute in 2009 by the New Mexico Legislature under a bill introduced by Albuquerque Representative Al Park after passing unanimously in both the House and Senate. Music Commission Act, Sections 18-16-1 through 18-16-4 NMSA 1978 (being Laws 2009, Chapter 13, Sections 1 through 4).

The Music Commission works throughout the state and with other state agencies like the Tourism and Film Departments to promote the many New Mexico musical traditions spanning from the ancient melodies of New Mexico's Native nations, tribes and pueblos, to the chart topping current hits of New Mexico residents.

"Our multitalented musicians will now have more opportunities to work with our expanding movie industry in New Mexico and this will broaden the economic opportunities for artists statewide," said Loie Fecteau, executive director of New Mexico Arts. "It is fitting that the state that was instrumental in the formative era of rock and roll—Buddy Holly was among the musicians to record at the Norman Petty studio in Clovis—will once again be front and center in the music world."