Who We Are
The Classical Mandolin Society of America is the only organization whose purpose is to promote and support the art of classical mandolin playing in North America.
This non-profit society was formed in 1986 by Norman Levine, a businessman, publisher and philanthropist who has been called "the financial and spiritual impresario of the mandolin world." Norman saw mandolin organizations in Europe and had the vision of a similar North American community of mandolinists. Since then, mandolin playing has seen a resurgence of popularity on our continent, in part due to the efforts of the CMSA.
At the turn of the twentieth century, mandolin orchestras were popular all over North America. There was an abundance of mandolin players, teachers and music published for mandolin and guitar and for mandolin orchestras. The popularity of mandolin orchestras declined from the 1920s to around 1970. Yet a number of mandolin orchestras have remained active here. Since the CMSA was formed, interest in classical mandolin has surged and new mandolin orchestras have been formed in Atlanta, Louisville, Minneapolis, Nashville, Dayton and Montreal.
Our efforts include education and resources to support existing and new orchestras. We provide grants for teaching and promotion, materials and instruments. We also offer scholarships to allow students to attend our annual convention.
The CMSA has over 400 members representing most U.S. states and Canadian provinces and several other countries. Our members include mandolinists, guitarists, mandola and mandocello players, conductors, teachers and composers. Members have a variety of backgrounds from bluegrass to jazz to classical. Playing ability ranges from beginners to professionals. Membership is open to any interested musician
Interest in the mandolin continues to grow as more people are attracted to the beauty of its sound and discover the joy of making music with other people. The CMSA aims to nurture the growth of the North American community of mandolin players and assist those interested in pursuing the art of the mandolin.
Read about the benefits of membership.