AVS

2026 David Dalton Viola Research Competition Call for Submissions

The American Viola Society invites submissions for the 2026 David Dalton Viola Research Competition (DDRC)—a space for scholars, performers, and thinkers to explore the threads that link our instrument to culture, history, identity, and one another. Named in honor of David Dalton, this competition honors a legacy of curiosity, depth, and discovery—encouraging research that doesn’t just inform, but connects.

Awards & Opportunities:
- $1,000 First Prize
- $500 Second Prize
- Sheet music package Third Prize
- Select publication in the Journal of the American Viola Society and invitation to present at an upcoming AVS Festival as an Emerging Scholar
- The Dalton Harmony Prize ($500) specifically recognizes work that uplifts non-canonic, underrepresented, and underserved voices—without affecting eligibility for other awards.

SUBMISSION DETAILS
Submissions must be received by June 1, 2026. Entries should be submitted electronically in Microsoft Word format and represent original, unpublished research on any aspect of the viola.

The DDRC continues to serve as a platform for meaningful scholarship that not only advances knowledge, but also fosters connection—bringing forward new perspectives, uncovering overlooked voices, and strengthening the shared fabric of the viola community.

For full guidelines and submission, please visit the David Dalton Research Competition page: https://www.americanviolasociety.org/dalton-competition/

Exhibition of Modern Violas and Bows at the 2026 AVS Festival
June 3-6
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
Registration open until April 15

The American Viola Society is delighted to showcase the Exhibition of Modern Violas and Bows at the 2026 AVS Festival, celebrating the artistry and innovation of today’s viola and bow makers. Held June 3–6, 2026 at James Madison University, the exhibition offers festival attendees a rare opportunity to explore, play, and engage with exceptional contemporary instruments in a central exhibition space.

Awards will be presented in two categories: Playability, selected through anonymous voting by festival participants, and Tone, determined through a blind live performance in concert by the extraordinary Daniel Foster, Principal Violist of the National Symphony Orchestra. This culminating tone competition highlights instruments purely by sound, offering makers an unparalleled platform for their work to be heard on its own merits.

Luthiers and archetiers are warmly encouraged to register. Each exhibitor may enter one viola and/or one bow, and all submissions must be original, handcrafted works. Winners and selected participants will be chosen by the EMVB Committee--including Bill Scott, Jr., 2026 Luthier-in-Residence--to take part in the 2026 AVSF Instrument Makers and Restoration Panel, offering additional visibility and professional engagement within the viola community.

We invite makers and performers alike to join us in honoring the essential role of lutherie and archeterie in shaping the future of the viola.

Full guidelines are now available here: https://tinyurl.com/2026-EMVB-Guidelines Registration is available on the Exhibition and Modern Violas & Bows Contract page: https://tinyurl.com/2026-EMVB-Conract

Announcing our 2026 AVS Educator Mini-Grant Program supporting viola pedagogy and education. This program invests in viola teachers, providing our valuable educators with funding that they feel would enhance the quality and/or scope of their teaching. We strongly encourage applicants to submit proposals for new creative educational projects.

Possible Educational Uses for Mini-Grant Funding:

Developing new programs for students
Commissioning new repertoire for students
Pedagogical/teaching supplies (one-time large investments)
Travel support to educational events
Seed money for larger projects
Professional development/continuing education for teachers (i.e., Suzuki teacher training, Rolland certification, string pedagogy workshop tuition, etc)
The following activities are not eligible for this round of AVS Educator Mini-Grants:

Expenses related to performance activities or recordings
Student tuition (summer festivals, degree programs)
Other student-related expenses
This program is open to current AVS members only. Applicants must have a current AVS membership at the time of both the application and award. Mini-grant recipients from the previous year are not eligible to apply.

Application info: Link in bio!

Deadline: April 1, 2026