The Classical Mandolin Society of America Inc.
is a 501(3)(c) not for profit corporation founded in 1986
and dedicated to promoting Mandolin in America.Our bylaws state our purpose clearly.
"To promote the study and playing of the family of Mandolin instruments
and the playing of the music written for those instruments.
To aid in the education and logistical support of those persons who are
or will be involved in carrying out the above activities."The Mandolin family of instruments mirrors the stringed quartet in tuning, range and similar string length. There are double strings for each open pitch, and the instrument is traditionally played with a plectrum (pick) instead of a bow.
The family includes the Mandolin, Mandola, Mandocello, and Mandobass.
There are also Octave Mandolins that fall in between the
tuning of the Mandola and Mandocello.In the early 1900s the Mandolin was the second most played instrument in the USA to the Piano. There were Mandolin orchestras all across the country and Mandolin was taught in many public school systems in the country.Today there are about a dozen active Mandolin Orchestras in existence in America. Currently there are two public school Mandolin Orchestras we are aware of in America. The CMSA is dedicated to increasing those numbers through education programs, and public performances by members, ensembles and orchestras associated with the CMSA.Our conventions are a "who's who" of the Mandolin world.
Some of the past performers at our conventions include:Butch Baldassari (Tennessee)
Sam Bush (Tennessee)
Duo Capriccioso (Germany)
Duetto Giocondo (Germany)
Neil Gladd (Washington D.C.)
Bruce Graybill (Missouri)
David Grisman (California)
Keith Harris (Germany)
Kurt Jensen (Australia)
Evan Marshall (California)
Mike Marshall (California)
Marilynn Mair (Rhode Island)
Modern Mandolin Quartet (California)
Ugo Orlandi (Italy)
Charley Rappaport (Pennsylvania)
Andre Saint-Clivier (France)
Paul Sparks (England)
Alison Stephens (England)
Don Stiernberg (Illinois)
Chris Thile (California)
Elke Tober-Vogt (Germany)
Tamara Volskaya (New York)
Tony Williamson (North Carolina)
Uptown Mandolin Quartet (Kansas)
Radim Zenkl (California)
Performers at our conventions also teach workshops, and many offer
private lessons during the convention hours they have free.
If you want to become a better Mandolin player, or just enjoy Mandolin,
our conventions are an immersion in every facet of the instrument.Join us at www.classicalmandolinsociety.org!
