RIN:034 INTRODUCTION - CODE OF ETHICS - PRINCIPLES OF PROFESSIONAL
CONDUCT
January 1997 - Check out the official AFVBM
Website.
Or read our commentary on the Unofficial AFVBM Website.
The American Federation of Violin & Bow Makers, Inc.
INTRODUCTION
(unabridged)
| 1. The occupations of violin making and bow making require extensive training, special aptitudes and extended practical experience. For those engaged in our profession, the development of technical skill and expert ability becomes a lifetime commitment. A maker's goal to create a fine new instrument or bow is to work in an established art from. In addition, objects of great value and historical significance are constantly entrusted to the care and judgment of the professional maker. |
| 2. The American Federation of Violin & Bow Makers, Inc., was founded as
a non-profit organization in 1980 by twenty leaders of the profession to elevate national
standards of craftsmanship and professional conduct. Through seminars, lectures and
exhibitions at annual meetings, the Federation provides publications and objects for the
study and growth of the membership. 3. Degrees issued by the Federation through the Journeyman's and Master's examination systems have become achievement milestones for those aspiring to excellence. Instrument and bow making exhibitions sponsored by the Federation provide a forum for makers to present their work to colleagues and to the broader musical community. 4. The Federation also recognizes an obligation of its members to serve the needs of musicians and the general public. This document outlines the government, conduct and ethical standards that guide Federation members and their organization. The BY-LAWS are an embodiment of the rules governing the internal affairs of the organization. They were first proposed by the founding Board of Governors under the leadership of its first president, Hans Weisshaar. In their present form, the BY-LAWS reflect the collaborative input of subsequent administrations and the general membership. |
| 5. The Committee for Professional Ethics, William L. Monical, Chairman,
with Luiz Bellini, Jacques Francais and Helmuth A. Keller prepared the ethical framework
of the Federation in 1982. The CODE OF ETHICS and PRINCIPLES
OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT special minimum levels of acceptable
conduct and are formally binding on the membership. 6. True ethical responsibility requires an absolute commitment to honorable behavior and practices, even at the sacrifice of personal advantage. Members of the Federation are expected to exercise sound judgment in avoiding situations which constitute or give the appearance of improper conduct or conflict of interest. |
| 7. The Board of Governors welcomes your interest and inquiries regarding the Federation and its programs. Membership procedures and applications are available from the Secretary, as is information concerning the on-going work and public activities of the organization. We look forward to hearing from you and encourage your participation. |
| The Board of Governors January, 1997
|