A Global Community for the Art and Science of String Instruments
The Violin Society of America (VSA) is an international non-profit organization that brings together people united by a deep interest in the violin family of instruments — the violin, viola, cello, double bass, and their bows. It serves as a meeting point for instrument makers, restorers, performers, researchers, collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts who share a passion for the craftsmanship, sound, history, and future of these instruments.
Founded in 1973, the VSA was established with a clear mission: to promote and preserve the art and science of making, repairing, and conserving stringed instruments and bows. From its beginnings, the Society has embraced a broad and inclusive vision. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the violin family, resulting in a diverse community that reflects many perspectives, disciplines, and traditions.
The scope of the VSA’s interests is wide-ranging. It encompasses fine craftsmanship and traditional techniques, modern innovation and acoustical research, historical studies of instruments and performers, performance practice, technique, repertoire, and the cultural significance of stringed instruments. This interdisciplinary approach allows the Society to connect practical knowledge with academic research and artistic expression.
To support its mission, the VSA organizes and sponsors numerous activities that are highly regarded within the international string instrument community. In even-numbered years, the Society hosts its world-renowned international competition for new instruments and bows, widely recognized as one of the most prestigious events of its kind. In addition, the VSA holds an annual convention featuring lectures, exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and special events that encourage learning, dialogue, and collaboration.
The Society is also deeply committed to education and publishing. It produces the respected Journal of the Violin Society of America and VSA Papers, which include scholarly and practical articles on instrument making, performance, acoustics, and history. A newsletter is published several times a year, keeping members informed about Society activities and developments within the field. In collaboration with Oberlin College, the VSA supports specialized workshops and maintains an extensive collection of books and resources dedicated to the violin and its related instruments.
In 2004, the Catgut Acoustical Society joined the VSA as the CAS Forum, further strengthening the Society’s focus on musical acoustics. The CAS Forum is dedicated to expanding and sharing knowledge about the acoustics of musical instruments and encouraging the practical application of this research in instrument making and performance.
Today, the Violin Society of America stands as a vibrant international community that honors tradition while fostering innovation — a place where knowledge is shared, standards are advanced, and the future of the violin family continues to be shaped.