American Children's Orchestras for Peace (ACOP)
About Us
The American Children's Orchestras for Peace, Inc. (ACOP) is a 501 (C) (3) non- profit organization founded in 2000 by Ms. Maida Santander.
​
ACOP provides a musical program dedicated to high standards for student musical performance. ACOP strives to create an exciting, challenging and rewarding musical environment that allows children to flourish. Our music lessons meet the highest standards in music education, utilizing proven evidence-based methodologies and curriculum materials.
​
As proven by research, music instruction improves all core academic skills, cognitive skills, and self-esteem, especially in disadvantaged youth. These are protective factors that are essential to break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness that often leads to juvenile violence and low achievement in high-risk youth.
​
ACOP music directors and instructors must have a degree in music or music education and prior experience with teaching music to children. ACOP also employs individuals with superior computer and data management experience to track enrollment, attendance, evaluation data as to add logistical support to the planning and implementation of program events (e.g., children’s concerts, field trips, etc.) Experienced staff ensure ongoing, open lines of communication with parents, program site personnel, site coordinators, directors and instructors.
Mission & Vision
All program activities – including musical instruments and instruction – are provided to children FREE of charge (the families and schools of participating children lack these resources).
​
The American Children Orchestras for Peace is dedicated to the prevention of violence and hopelessness through the universal language of music.
ACOP’s mission is to “create for our children, through music, an environment free of violence”. Our Vision is that, by developing specific musical programs, we aim to provide children with alternatives to the cycle of poverty and hopelessness that so often leads to violence. Our vision caters as much to the children’s artistic development as it does to the idea of music as a tool for peace and social change.
​
We are thrilled about exposing deprived children, who could otherwise not afford such opportunities, to the world of music.
ACOP's Historical Promotinal Brochures
