Using music to build a stronger world
Our mission is to support, educate and empower student musicians, guest teachers and audiences in the US and Cuba. Here, CAYO (cah-yo) helps musicians find common ground across barriers by sharing a tuning “A”, to sharing a meal, to sharing indelible memories. Our priority is to provide equal input and impact for both cultures.
CAYO provides a creative space for US and Cuban participants to connect through music in a number of ways:
Week-long travel to Cuba where students, teaching artists and parents can collaborate, socialize and learn from each other
Exposure to world class teaching artists from the US and Cuba across genres
Professional training and live performances alongside peers from a different culture
Full-scale orchestra of students from across the US and Cuba
The world is a better place when you know your neighbors
The Student Ambassador Program is a week-long cultural exchange for US and Cuban students, giving students, teaching artists and parents the unique opportunity to collaborate, socialize and learn from each other in Cuba.
Daily workshops at local music schools in Havana
Work with world-class teaching artists from prestigious institutions
Orchestral preparation, improvisation, chamber music and more
Contribute to humanitarian mission through service hours in Cuba
An unforgettable experience that forges lifelong relationships and memories
How you can help
Your support of our scholarship program enables talented students to have an unforgettable musical experience regardless of their financial means. Your gift supports learning that goes beyond the classroom, helping young people access world-class music education, grow through cultural exchange, and participate in our world community.
Donations also supply young musicians in Cuba with the tools they need to meet their potential, from humanitarian supplies to sheet music and instruments.
Rick Heydinger Student Scholarship Fund
General operations
Endowment fund
Teaching artists
CAYO teaching artists are drawn from leading institutions of music from the US and Cuba. These renowned musicians from different genres, disciplines and locations bring their solo, chamber and orchestral experience to students in our Student Ambassador Programs.
Music catalog
Explore sheet music available for purchase by Cuban composers.
Stay connected and never miss a beat
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Nonet for flute, clarinet, bassoon, violin, cello, French horn, trumpet, double bass and piano