The 52nd Convention & 26th International Competition in Cleveland
Event Information
November 15-20, 2026
Hotel Cleveland, Autograph Collection
24 Public Square Cleveland, OH 44113
The VSA invites you to celebrate the art and science of making, preserving, & restoring stringed musical instruments and their bows, in person, once more.
Join us for a full week of convention programming and the International Competition honoring outstanding achievements by contemporary makers.
Details Coming Soon
Organizing committees are hard at work making plans. Please check back for more information soon.
Hotel Reservations
Competition Rules & Entry Details
Convention Schedule
Speakers, Presenters & Panelists
New Instrument Exhibit
Rare Instrument Exhibit
Networking, Games & Mixers
Scholarship Auction
Vendor Hall
Volunteer Opportunities
Sponsorships
International Competition New Rule Announcement
Silver Mounted Bows Only
Beginning with the 2026 VSA International Competition, all bow entries must be silver-mounted only. All metal fittings—including the ferrule, heel plate, underslide, button rings/caps, winding, and/or tip—must be silver; gold and all other metals are not permitted. This change was recommended by past judges and esteemed senior members of the bow-making community and was approved unanimously by both the Competition Committee and the VSA Board of Directors. Through this change we aim to further the VSA’s commitment to an open, fair, and inclusive Competition for makers at every level of experience—regardless of career stage or financial means.
Why the change?
Fairness & perception Moving to silver-only helps level the playing field between newer and more established makers so judging stays focused on craftsmanship and playability. While we are confident our judges have always maintained their objectivity, some competitors perceive a bias toward gold-mounted bows.
High gold prices Current costs can distort the playing field and add unnecessary financial pressure for entrants.
Alignment with international practice Brings our rules in line with other major international competitions that allow silver mountings only.
Ethical concerns The international gold trade is linked to child labor and serious human-rights abuses in some mining regions. It also fuels smuggling and illicit flows, undermining governance and responsible, transparent supply chains.
The updated rule will be published with the full 2026 Competition Rules. Please refer to the official rulebook when it is released.
Get Involved
The VSA is run by volunteer members like you. Raise your hand now to help make 2026 a success.
