In the Beginning

Sigma Alpha Iota was founded on June 12, 1903 at the University School of Music, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Incorporation papers, under the laws of the State of Michigan, were signed December 1, 1904, and recorded December 15, 1904.

Founders

Elizabeth Campbell
Frances Caspari
Minnie Davis Sherrill
Leila Farlin Laughlin
Nora Crane Hunt
Georgina Potts
Mary Storrs Andersen

Alpha Zeta History

In 1925 a group of Oklahoma City University music students and faculty organized a club called Mu Sigma. This group was installed as the Alpha Zeta chapter of SAI on November 10, 1928. Chapter members were: Marianne Bays, Ruth Blassingame, Marian Deirdorff, Elaine Farmer, Miryl Garrett, Genevieve Greer, Virginia Hale, Ruth Jenkins, Helen Kaylor, Ruth Lindsay, Mazo Pickle, Clara Trenfield, Sansing, Caryl Taylor and Ester Wessell. Mrs. Clarence Burg was sponsor. Patronesses were: Mrs. Floyd R. Bull, Mrs. Fred H. Austin, Mrs. Basil A. Hayes and Mrs. Earl Virdin.

Ester Wessell Farmer's childhood home was just a few blocks from campus in the 20s. Many SAI meetings were held there. She and her husband lived there until the 90's. Oklahoma City University has since expanded but the Farmer's House still stands. It is geared for international students on campus now.

Wanda L. Bass School of Music

In Fall of 2006, the SAI sisters of Alpha Zeta moved into a brand new music building made possible by Wanda L. Bass, National Honorary Member.

The $38.5 million teaching facility added 113,000-square-feet, and more than doubled the size of the old music school. The Bass Music Center has 60 practice rooms, 40 new teaching studios, high-tech music labs, six ensemble rehearsal halls, and a black-box theater. Because of the new space, the Alpha Zeta chapter now has new office and storage space. The expansion incorporates new developments in soundproof and acoustical sciences. Because of the expansion, SAI now has their own office and additional storage space.