On April 2, 1974, the Friends of Music held its first meeting, fulfilling a dream of Frances Reitz, wife of former University of Florida President J. Wayne Reitz, and Dr. Donald E. McGlothlin, then Chairman of the Music Department and now Dean of the College of Fine Arts. The primary goal of the Friends of Music was to establish a scholarship fund for talented and deserving music students. Since 1974, the Friends of Music endowment has grown to over $1,000,000, and more than 2,000 students have been named as Friends of Music Scholars. Some have also been recipients of one of the named and endowed awards, given by the Friends of Music and the School of Music each year.
Scholarship students represent many communities throughout Florida and the United States, as well as several foreign countries. Many go on to music careers in teaching, performing, conducting, and composing, extending their influence throughout the nation. Others pursue professional interests outside the field of music, while remaining actively involved in musical activities in their local communities.