1. Organize an initial meeting - you need at least ten members.

2. Make sure all members of your proposed viola society are members of the AVS or will be when the material is submitted.

3. Elect the required officers.

4. Read and carefully fill out the Bylaws and Application Form. Fill in all the blank lines with your geographical name, i.e. The Los Angeles Viola Society. Downloadable Bylaws and Application Form

5. Decide to incorporate or not. You do not have to incorporate. Incorporation is simply a way to be more independent - your chapter becomes a legal entity and files its own tax returns in addition to other advantages and responsibilities. Incorporation laws are slightly different in every state and there are costs involved. Please check with your appropriate governmental agency and legal counsel.

6. Application can be made for an AVS contribution grant to assist in start-up expense.

7. Open a checking account. Again, all states are different - you may need an authorizing letter from national. If that is the case, contact Madeleine Crouch, AVS General Manager for the required documentation.

8. Organize an initial activity. Suggestions include: *Bring in a local guest artist for a recital or clinic; *Do an evening of chamber music; viola duets or whatever you wish; * Plan a reception for a visiting artist; * Plan a theme concert, i.e. a transcription night or a Baroque evening, for those who wish to perform; *Organize a local viola competition. *N.B. An AVS contribution grant to assist in start-up expenses can be applied for

9. Decide on an appropriate amount for your local dues.

10. Collect dues from all members. Each member will write one check to include annual dues for the Chapter and annual dues for the AVS.

11. Send the completed application form, the Chapter Bylaws, the Articles of Incorporation (if required) and required national and local membership dues and application forms to:

Madeleine Crouch
AVS National Office
14070 Proton Rd. Suite 100
Dallas, TX 75244
(972)233-9107 ext. 204