About ARS
The American Recorder Society is a membership organization that exists to promote the recorder and its music, and to support the community of recorder players, both amateur and professional. It was founded in 1939.
Our members include individuals and businesses. Members receive the American Recorder magazine and Newsletter, published quarterly, as well as access to member-only benefits on our website, such as the online music library and a member directory. Members also qualify for scholarships to weekend and week-long workshops. Our goal is to build a strong, vital and inclusive community of recorder players with membership from many different ethnic, socio-economic, racial, and educational backgrounds.
The American Recorder Society has nearly 150 affiliated Chapters, Consorts, and Recorder Orchestras throughout North America. Approximately half of our members also belong to one or more of these groups. Chapters typically meet monthly for group playing and instruction. Consorts are typically smaller groups that rehearse on a regular schedule. Recorder Orchestras are typically performing groups that include a large number of people playing recorders in a wide range of sizes. The American Recorder Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, founded in 1939. Donations to ARS support over half of the operating expenses of the organization. The ARS is governed by an elected Board of Directors and employs a full-time Administrative Director and a part-time administrative assistant. 
As a member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education, the American Recorder Society is committed to making high quality arts education accessible to all.
