Columbia Music Festival Association CMFA founded in 1897, as a joint partnership between local government and the private sector continues today as a vital and vibrant arts incubator for the Midlands of South Carolina. Throughout its distinguished history CMFA has undergone many changes in focus; but has never strayed from its original mandate to Educate, Discover, Develop, Train, Assist, Present, Produce and Promote the performing arts among the areas own citizens for the edification of all and to serve as a council and resource for the community.