Get Involved
Transform your passion into impact. As a 100% member-run organization, The Violin Society of America thrives on the expertise and dedication of members like you. Whether you have a few hours or can offer a year-round presence, your contributions will help advance the art and science of [instrument and bow] making for generations to come.
Join a Committee
Drive innovation and forge lasting connections in one of our dynamic committees. Becoming a committee member is the best way to build a meaningful relationship with the organization, give back to others, and explore further opportunities in VSA leadership. Committees meet virtually each month, with flexible time commitments to fit your schedule.
Committees Areas Include
- Publications
- Programming
- Membership & Marketing
- Scholarships & Grants
Publish Your Expertise
Add your voice to violin making's living history. Help grow the written record of expertise in our field through our two primary publications, The Scroll & The VSA Papers. Whether you're interested in writing or editing, your contributions are critical to building a lasting legacy of excellence in the trade.
Present at the Convention
Take center stage at our annual convention and join a long tradition of respected expertise. Each time you share your hard-earned insights, you help advance both our mission and the field at large.
The Programming committee begins work on the next convention early and encourages you to indicate interest in becoming a presenter as soon as possible.
Popular Topics Are
- New making techniques
- Restoration techniques
- Historical research
- Scientific analysis
The committee is eager to hear your proposals and will work alongside you to prepare a dynamic session.
Volunteer at the Convention
The VSA needs volunteers like you to run impactful events. A typical convention needs as many as 150-250 hours of volunteer coverage–making member volunteers like you an indispensable resource.
How You Can Help
- Exhibition Monitors
- Auction Assistants
- Raffle Assistants
- Presentation Assistants
- Sound Recording Ai
Sharing your time at the convention is not just helpful to the organization and its mission, it's a great way to connect with old colleagues and create new friends.
And volunteer experience is preferred in candidates applying for further leadership opportunities at The VSA like membership on the Board of Directors, making it a valuable stepping stone in your professional journey.
Lend Your Professional Expertise
Ad hoc professional services are required for special projects that enhance the impact of The VSA. If you have substantive experience and training in the following areas, we want to hear from you! We’re seeking experienced professionals in:
Strategic Impact
- Corporate Strategy
- Governance & Training
- Grant Writing
- Fund Raising
Creative & Technical
- Marketing
- Copywriting & Editing
- Event Planning
- Photography
Professional Services
- Legal Services
- Accounting Services
Serve on the Board of Directors
Shape our organization's future as part of our 16-member Board of Directors, which sets priorities and policies to help the VSA reach its mission. This working board requires active participation through either committee leadership or service as a member-at-large on special projects.
Path to Board Involvement
- Self-identify or receive recruitment from current members
- Previous committee-level service is highly encouraged
- Submit an application demonstrating your understanding of:
- The organization's most important opportunities and challenges
- The role of the Board of Directors
- Key governance duties
- Receive nomination from the Governance committee
- Gain approval from the Board
- Secure member vote at the annual November convention
Terms are typically 4 years with the option to serve 4 more, subject to membership approval.