Missions and Goals

Missions and Goals

The American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS) is the international leader dedicated to pursuing a positive difference in conserving and promoting the theatre pipe organ and its music, preserving original instruments where possible. We provide support and guidance to all ATOS chapters and others, with promotional and educational opportunities to both those within the Society, and to the public worldwide through the Internet, publications, conventions, and personal contact. We are passionately devoted to providing professional leadership and resources so the theatre pipe organ will thrive in the 21st century.

Organized in 1955, ATOS has grown into an international society of more than 3,000 members. There are over 60 chapters in the United States and foreign countries. Members working at the chapter level are accomplishing the goals of ATOS to preserve, restore, maintain, and promote the theatre pipe organ. Presenting concerts, silent film programs and educational seminars for the general public are but a few of the regularly scheduled chapter activities. ATOS is formed and recognized as a non-profit organization under IRS guidelines 501(c)3.

Another goal of ATOS is to encourage young musicians to become proficient theatre organists. An annual Young Organist Competition is sponsored by ATOS. The winners receive cash awards and the opportunity to perform at the Annual ATOS Convention. In addition, ATOS provides annual scholarships to aspiring young organ students.

Members receive the acclaimed bimonthly journal, Theatre Organ, which contains articles of interest to all theatre pipe organ enthusiasts. This journal has become the almost exclusive source of information about new and reissued theatre pipe organ recordings.

In addition, ATOS maintains a comprehensive archives/library collection, which is available by appointment to members, music scholars, historians, and others. The ATOS radio program, Theatre Pipes, is available at no cost, to local radio stations for broadcast in their service area.

Mission Statement

To preserve, protect, promote and present a truly American musical invention, the theatre pipe organ and its musical art form, worldwide;

To ensure that the few remaining instruments are played wherever possible to provide entertainment to the public as a solo instrument or part of an ensemble, and to accompany silent films.

To encourage industry-accepted restoration and maintenance methods and techniques to ensure performance ability for future generations;

To assist local chapters and our members by providing coordinated support in education, concert promotion, and marketing to further our mission.

Vision Statement

ATOS expects to participate in growing the number of active theatre organs, expanding public awareness of this art form, and bringing a new generation of theatre organ audiences, supporters, technicians and artists into the fold of a flourishing ATOS. The efforts are expected to facilitate a thriving theatre organ presence worldwide.