Mission Statement

The International Viola Society (IVS) is a global community dedicated to celebrating and advancing the art of the viola. Founded in 1968 by Franz Zeyringer as The Viola-Forschungsgellschaft, the IVS serves as a vibrant hub for violists, educators, students, and enthusiasts from around the world.

Our mission is to support and elevate the viola through a variety of initiatives. We provide valuable resources, including access to exclusive materials, networking opportunities, and competition and performance platforms. Through our international congresses, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation within the global viola community.

At the IVS, we are passionate about nurturing talent and expanding the horizons of viola music. We strive to promote excellence and creativity, and to ensure that the viola receives the recognition it deserves in the broader musical landscape.

Join us as we celebrate the rich history and dynamic future of the viola. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, the IVS offers a welcoming space for everyone who shares our love for this extraordinary instrument.

Discover more about our events, resources, and how you can get involved. Together, let's make beautiful music and push the boundaries of what the viola can achieve.

THE PURPOSES OF THE IVS IS TO:

  • Promote ever-increasing standards of excellence in viola performance through the annual congresses and associated competitions.

  • Encourage and support research in the history of the viola, its performers, teachers, makers, and composers.

  • Lobby and influence publishers to publish music and books relevant to the viola. Initiate and subsidize or underwrite the process if necessary.

  • Authorize and coordinate the annual International Viola Society congresses. Aid and support the host section and organizers of the annual congress.

  • Support the mission of the Primrose International Viola Archive (PIVA) and facilitate the exchange and availability of materials.

  • Promote the periodic publication of an index of holdings such as the Zeyringer lexicon, Literatur für Viola.

  • Assist in the exchange of information and professional contact between friends of the viola through publication of a periodic newsletter containing information regarding viola related events, such as competitions, concerts, newly-released recordings, and publications.

  • Facilitate the exchange of section newsletters and journals and the publication of an international membership roster.

  • Encourage the building of new, high quality instruments and bows through the display of these at annual congresses.

  • Encourage the development of new viola repertoire through performance and publication promotion.

  • Encourage and promote viola events and activities in regions not represented by a member section of the IVS.

  • Promote the development of new IVS member sections.

  • Encourage viola sections in professional orchestras all over the world to organize themselves on national and international levels.