Youth in ACOP’s Classical Orchestras program learn the history of instruments; important composers; and the importance, structure, and different forms of classical music – while learning to read and write in musical notation. General instruction is provided through two hour sessions on a musical instrument two or three times a week (depending on funding), which allows youth to learn music techniques in order to understand the language of music. During this time, students obtain the essential tools to learn both correct body positioning and form, while becoming familiar with the “String” instrument of their choice such as; violin, viola, and cello.

With a large demographic of Latin-American and Haitian children in South Florida, our Latin and Afro-Caribbean Orchestras are a popular and educational program that teach and connect children the roots of their culture. Youth in ACOP’s Latin and Afro-Caribbean Orchestras program learn the history of instruments; important composers; and the importance, structure, and different forms of Latin and Afro-Caribbean music – while learning to read and write in musical notation. General instruction is provided through two hour sessions on a musical instrument two or three times a week (depending on funding), which allows youth to learn music techniques in order to understand the language of music. During this time, students obtain the essential tools to learn both correct body positioning and form, while becoming familiar with the instruments on a rotation schedule such as; congas, timbales, keyboards, drums, haitian bongos, etc.

Several of our program sites also offer Recorder for Pre-K children & voice instruction (Chorus).

Recorders are instruments in the woodwind family that come in soprano, alto and tenor versions, and are perfect for an introduction to the world of music. ACOP’s Recorder instruction classes are ideal for teaching kids the basics of music because they are simple to learn and easily used to demonstrate sight-reading and listening skills.

ACOP's Chorus classes allow youth to learn the basics of voice development and breathing techniques, as well as lyrics and songs. After several months of instruction and practice, the students perform in public concerts and performances throughout Miami-Dade County.

The vision of the American Children’s Orchestras for Peace is to break the cycle, not just create a temporary solution, with that in mind, ACOP strives to inspire parents to get involved with their children, uniting them to learn and grow together in harmony, utilizing music to heal emotional wounds and stabilize the family structure. This is accomplished by rewarding participation (for parents and children) with awards, incentives and through our Parents for ACOP Orchestras program. The Parents for ACOP Orchestras are composed of parents & children and provide families with an opportunity to have fun and at the same time share a music learning experience. The purpose of “Parents for ACOP Orchestras” is to build a valuable communication channel with the parents regarding their children’s music program while inspiring parents to take an active role in the development of their children.

Parents, like the children, learn to follow instructions and are taught musical techniques utilizing fun and creative methods, giving parents, and children, a break from their daily routines.