About
We’re all about creating music, relationships, and cultural understanding that transforms lives
Mission
Support, educate, and empower students, teachers, and audiences in the US and Cuba through music.
Vision
Transforming lives through cultural, musical, and personal exchange with the Cuban people.
Values
The principles that guide us in all that we do.
Collaboration. Working and playing together to build our talents, our relationships, and our future.
Inclusivity. Welcoming young musicians of all cultures, ethnicities, experience, gender identities, sexual orientations, and financial means.
Integrity. Being true in our actions, communications, and decisions.
Curiosity. Being open to exploring new music, new cultures, new peoples.
Determination. Meeting and overcoming challenges large and small.
Impacting the community
CAYO provides a creative space for the people of the US and Cuba to connect through music. Since 2017, we have come together through one-on-one lessons and intimate chamber music collaborations, from online videos to a full-scale orchestra of musicians from across the US and Cuba. Music is the medium through which we build connection for students, teachers and audiences.
CAYO by the numbers
1,200
Students impacted
Earn service in Cuba
1,700 lbs
Humanitarian aid
Food, clothing, medicine and musical instruments
Leadership team
Don’t let these relaxed, unassuming folks fool you. As a leadership team their passion for music, support for students, and dedication to creating a better world through US-Cuba musical, cultural, and personal exchange is unmatched . . . and unbowed.
Our students bring their talent. Our mentors bring their passion.
Our CAYO teaching artists hail from prestigious music institutions across the US and Cuba, enriching our programs with their diverse expertise. These esteemed musicians, representing various genres and disciplines, bring a wealth of solo, chamber, and orchestral experience to our students. Through our Student Ambassador Program, they inspire and mentor the next generation of musical talent.
CAYO in the news
From local coverage to features on national media, CAYO doesn’t just make music… CAYO makes news.
CNN report about CAYO
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