Children's Orchestra Society, Inc.

I first met COS’s Executive Director, Yeou-Cheng Ma, when she and her brother, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, were at Harvard University, both of them students of my father, composer Leon Kirchner. Life-long friendships were formed from those early days, all of us young at the same time. Yeou-Cheng was an example of a phenomenon among students who were accomplished practitioners of music and science. She has since enjoyed a successful career as a pediatrician, as an active chamber musician performing in concert on piano, violin and viola, and as a treasured teacher and mentor to a generation of students in music. As executive director of the COS, founded by her formidable father, Dr. H. T. Ma, in 1961,Yeou-Cheng Ma has enhanced the lives of countless children and young adults gifted in music. For many years now, she has shared her vision for COS with her husband, Michael Dadap, an accomplished composer, educator, and classical guitarist who co-leads as Artistic & Music Director of COS.
COS presents excellent performances by gifted musicians who celebrate decades of commitment and a multi-generational network of former and current students, teachers, and mentors. Together they perform diverse programs of orchestral works and some choral and chamber music. Introductions and stories shared in performance generate warmth, and a visceral positivity permeates audiences filled with family, friends, community and the broader swath of music lovers in attendance at each concert. COS has provided gifted young musicians the treasured experience of full immersion in music by means of private lessons, master classes, studies in music theory, musicianship, orchestral, chamber and solo playing, mentorship, career guidance, and opportunities worldwide for concert performances in major venues. It has produced several decades of eminent musicians performing internationally. Students who may not have had access to this kind of training or guidance are supported by COS and its grants. These opportunities endow a life that endows other lives and provide an example of what such an organization can accomplish with the funds to implement its vision as its reputation grows and visibility in major halls increases around the globe.

A wonderful organization helping talent for decades and bring music to children and families. The concerts are memorable and performed with love and care. The society trains musicians and is managed brilliantly, with great attention to every detail.

My older daughter played cello in JSE and YSE for four years during high school. She was so inspired by all the talented students, dedicated faculty, and a wonderful music collection. It was her happiest three hours each week when she could appreciate the harmony, collaboration, and synergy of the group. She has also made many friends with young musicians from other school districts who care for and inspire each other. Music became an integral part of her life, and she continued to play in her university orchestra, where they play two concerts for local people and college students each semester.

Now, my younger daughter has joined the Majors Program of COS, where she has enrolled in orchestra, chamber music, and musicianship classes. She loves the faculty and program since they elevated her to a new platform, where she was exposed to new composers and genres of music, as well as different ensembles. She also gained confidence from practice and recently played in the pit orchestra for her school Broadway musical “Beauty and the Beast”. Thank you, Yeou-cheng and Michael, and all the faculty!

The Children's Orchestra Society (COS) exemplifies excellence in youth music education while creating lasting community impact. Beyond technical instruction, COS builds confidence and life skills through its supportive learning environment. Students develop crucial abilities in teamwork, discipline, and creative expression while forming lasting friendships. The organization's sliding scale tuition and scholarship programs ensure access for families regardless of financial circumstances, creating a diverse community of young musicians.
The program's impact extends beyond its students through community concerts, outreach programs, and collaborations with local schools. Senior students mentor younger musicians, creating a cycle of peer support and leadership development. This multi-generational approach strengthens community bonds, with alumni often returning as teachers or supporters.
Through performances at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and community spaces alike, COS demonstrates how musical excellence and social responsibility can harmoniously coexist, enriching both individual lives and the broader community.

My daughter had been part of the Queens College CPSM program which was a great experience. Then as I was clicking through programs on the TV, I came across a PBS program that was showcasing the Children's Orchestra Society, Inc. and discovered it was based here on Long Island. When I called, I was invited to a concert they were doing in Manhattan and of course I went with my daughter. I was so amazed at the talent and professionalism that I had my daughter join them. I loved the Saturday rehearsals and then the concerts. It was sad when my daughter graduated high school and was no longer part of it. I am so far East on Long Island that it is very difficult for me to go to the concerts in Manhattan but I do miss them. I hope this group continues on in perpetuity so that many more children can benefit from this experience.

Two talented people, Yeou-Cheng and Michael, are doing their part to insure that the next generation will have professional musicians. Focusing on a universe of 5-17 year olds the process begins with the nurturing of 5 year olds and continues with shepherding through age 17 when they go off to college. Also impressive is their ability to attract accomplished individuals as contributors, notably Loida Lewis as Chair. I am pleased to be part of such a group.

I have known Dr. Ma for about forty years; she is intelligent, kind, dependable, lovely, and hardworking.
Thanks to her dedication and teaching, many talented musicians graduate from her school every year. I think she is doing a fantastic job.
May D. Chou, DDS

As a former student at COS, I know first hand that this organization has cultivated a deeply nurturing environment for students, and can help build a musical foundation that will enrich their lives for years to come

I confidently say that this is the best orchestral society in all of America.
Scratch that, the best in the world.

I know it sounds like a big claim, but it's true. At COS, I don't just feel like a student in a facility to learn something among others—I feel that I am part of something more than just an orchestra—a family. It’s not competitive in the way you might expect—people genuinely want to see each other succeed.

Another really amazing thing is the faculty. They take the time to get to know you, to understand your strengths and where you need to grow. They’re always there to help, whether it's with technique or even just a word of encouragement.

What I love the most, though, is how organized everything is. As a student, it makes such a difference to know exactly what’s expected and when. It really helps me focus on the music and get the most out of every session.

If you’re looking for a place where you can become the best version of yourself—both on and off the stage—this is it.

The Children's Orchestra Society is so much more than a children's orchestra: it is a family that nurtures and guides the children in their care, that teaches them to embrace art and culture, and above all, teaches important life lessons of humility, dignity, respect and kindness. Both of my children, now grown and each a professional musician, were lucky to be accepted to COS and performed with both the junior and senior level orchestra ensembles. While we all know that children can often rebel against the routine of practice, every child at COS looked forward to Saturdays where they joyfully reunited with friends, raced around the gym and played basketball in between music lessons, and bloomed under the firm but gentle instruction of every COS instructor, including Yeou-Cheng Ma and Michael Dadap. Not only did the experience with COS encourage them to choose music as careers (which was NOT the goal and came as a surprise), but they became better individuals and better members of society because of COS. We know that children emulate teachers they love - and the values they learned in our family, reinforced at COS, are the values they retain today. In these difficult times, what better gift can we make than to an organization that teaches love, tolerance, patience and diligence, through the universal language of music? If you care about the future of our world and you want the next generation to rise to become compassionate leaders, please keep the Children's Orchestra Society in your thoughts - and your giving plans.

The Children's Orchestra Society (COS) was an essential part of my childhood. Not only did COS provide me with the tools necessary to grow as a young musician, but the faculty and parents also continually fostered a warm, welcoming, and nurturing community. I am now a professional musician. My experience at COS was foundational and indispensable to my development as a person and as a musician.

Ever since my daughter joined COS as a student, I have always felt it was the right place to be for her to play in a children's orchestra. Yeou-cheng and Michael have created a place where children can learn the language of music in a warm caring environment starting when they are a few years old till when they graduate from high school. They have devoted their lives to this wonderful orchestra teaching generations of children. First as a parent volunteering to help at the orchestra and now as a board member I continue to support COS and give back to them my time and monetary support so that they can give what they gave to my daughter as a student and young learning musician.

For over a decade, our two sons had the privilege of being part of the Children’s Orchestra Society (COS), and I can confidently say that it was one of the most enriching experiences of their formative years. The level of dedication and expertise displayed by the instructors and leadership at COS is unparalleled. Under their guidance, our sons not only honed their musical talents but also developed discipline, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the art of music.

The COS community fosters an environment of support and inspiration, where young musicians are encouraged to challenge themselves and grow both personally and artistically. The opportunities for performances, workshops, and collaborations provided them with invaluable experiences that extended beyond music, preparing them for life and future endeavors. Even now, as they embark on their college journeys, the skills and values they learned at COS continue to resonate.

We are incredibly grateful to COS for nurturing their love of music and being an integral part of their growth. It is an organization that truly makes a lasting impact on young musicians and their families. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for an outstanding orchestral experience for their children.

The Children’s Orchestra Society is an exceptional program that provides students with a foundation to enter the professional music world. Not only is it comprised of four orchestras of varying levels, but as well as musicianship classes, chamber groups, percussion, and private lessons with the faculty to further the skills of the students. COS does a fantastic job in providing challenging material to be rehearsed and performed to push the abilities of the young members of the orchestra. As an alumn of the program, I can confidently say I would not be the musician I am today without Maestro Michael Dadap and Dr. Yeou-Chang Ma. Every child who graduates from this program leaves with musical, discipline, and social skills that will stick with them throughout their lives.

We have had the pleasure and good fortune of having one or both of our children in the orchestras of COS for 9 years. This wonderful organization has helped them grow as both musicians and people, under the mentorship of Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma, Mr. Michael Dadap, and many other amazing teachers over the years.

Children's Orchestra Society has been a valuable part of my kids' lives. They became outstanding musicians and found a community of like-minded friends that allowed them to flourish. The faculty are intelligent and very helpful. Highly recommend!!

I come from a background in early childhood-elementary school education that is rooted in the importance of a whole child, child-centered approach to learning. I have been very impressed by the strength of the Children's Orchestra Society's program and the nurturing way in which COS not only develops in its young students a love of music, and an awareness of the power of music to transform, but also, through growing musical competency and a supportive teamwork with peers, a critically importance sense of community and self-confidence. Each performance leaves these young people with a palpable sense of pride in their collective accomplishment. Yeou Cheng Ma is a tribute to her father's legacy. I applaud COS, Yeou-Cheng, Michael Dadap and their amazing staff, and I hope that more people will get to experience and support this extraordinary organization!

A place for young musicians to explore their musical journey and form lifelong friendships.

My 5 children have been members of the Children’s Orchestra Society for the last 5 years. Everybody at COS genuinely cares about the kids. COS has instilled a love of music which they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. My children have improved so much and learned so much from COS. Everyone from Dr Ma and Michael to the faculty are great role models. They are kind and wonderful people. Over the years they have accommodated our family in so many ways. They feel more like family than an orchestra. I recommend COS for all levels of musicians. My kids have been members of other orchestras but they have found their home at COS.

COS was a formative part of my teenage years, both musically and personally. Dr. Ma, Mr. Dadap, and the rest of the staff not only bring a collective wealth of musical knowledge, but also care greatly about each individual student. The result is a collaborative and supportive community thriving in a rich environment of musical inspiration. I can say without a doubt that I would not be who I am today without my experiences at COS.

Without doubt, COS supports and trains the next generations of the best & brightest. If that weren’t enough, this is an organization with a deeply significant history in NYC. The performances and rehearsals I’ve attended were incredible. The kids are amazing! Michael and Yeou-Cheng work so hard for them, and what they do has a spark of magic, as well.

I worked for Children’s Orchestra Society in 2023 as their Graphic Designer for the Annual Discovery Concert. It was a breeze to work with the organization. Everyone was super nice and responsive. I have also gone to a few of COS’ concerts and I’m a big fan! Not only the kids were giving brilliant performance. I could also tell that they enjoyed playing in the orchestra.

My twins are both participating in COS. I cannot thank you enough for providing such a nurturing environment for young kids to development their interests in music. We always looking forward to a fun filled Saturday, to learn music, to make friends, and to be around with Dr Ma, Michael and all the wonderful staff there.

I love how the children are so enthusiastic as they are learning at all levels.

I am a proud board member of Children's Orchestra Society. It is a truly remarkable organization that puts each and every child at the center of their mission. I have had the opportunity to attend numerous concerts, rehearsals, sit in on classes, and I have always been deeply touched and inspired by the expertise, dedication, and the care that all of the faculty bring to their work. I have watched graduates go on to be successful in a wide range of endeavors, thanks to the core teaching and learning philosophy at COS which engenders resilience and develops the, collaborative, communicative, and reflective capacities of each student, as well as their sensitivity, artistry, and of course their musicianship!

COS is such an integral part of children's lives. Their care and professionalism go beyond what anyone would expect when working with them. The team at COS is absolutely incredible, talented, and respectable. Any family looking for the highest quality education in music MUST be a part of what the Children's Orchestra Society is doing!!

As a parent of two children with widely different temperament, I appreciate the opportunities that the Children's Orchestra Society has afforded them, giving them a chance to perform in major venues in NYC, going on tour in the US and Canada, the Far East, Scotland, giving them a chance to interact with other young people who love music. Now that they are grown and have become parents themselves, it is rewarding to watch them pass along their love for music.

I can’t say enough about the Children’s Orchestra Society not only because I am one of its oldest board members but because the experience of seeing the molding and growth of young musicians for me never gets old. I continue to be inspired by the dedication of the teachers and of Michael Dadap and Yeou Cheng Ma who have been running this organization for as long as I’ve been around and their enthusiasm and support of the children have been steadfast and unwavering. Music has always been important to me and now more than ever when we find ourselves in one of the great challenges of our lifetime, I feel the importance of music even more to lend solace and lift our spirits. The Children’s Orchestra Society provides such an amazing opportunity to give the gift of music to children. Through the years I have seen the magic music brings to individual lives whether or not they end up becoming professional musicians. At our annual concerts when I see them perform whether at Alice Tully Hall, Hunter College or Carnegie Hall with a world class musician focused on their instruments and the performance at hand I am always teary eyed and so proud to be part of something so much bigger than myself. I am so thankful for this opportunity. Lily O’Boyle

I strongly recommend Children’s Orchestra Society as one of the best in our community. During the pandemic, the orchestra never give up and they have had three virtual galas to comfort people and to voice out their enthusiasm towards music. WQXR FM 105.9 classical music station also introduced these young musicians and it inspired us very much indeed

I am a Board Member if the AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Victory Fund. For our Virtual Fundraising for Biden in May 18, 2020, Children’s Orchestra Society has video taped 60 children playing in the security of their own home but with texhnology a beautiful rendition of “America the Beautiful.” The more than 500 people who watched it on Zoom were very amazed and touched and made aware of this 51 year old cOS, founded by the father of Yo-Yo Ma. His sister Yeou-cheng is executive director. If

As a COS parent who became a board member, I can see what a tremendous impact of COS on the young generation, far beyond their school years while were were at COS. The children learn how to express themselves, respect others and listen to each others. Like any language, music can be learned. If our children start their conversation by asking what music one another like, instead of where you are from or what party you are voting for, I am sure we will have a better world.

Children’s Orchestra Society (COS) is a significant part of my family’s life. My child played in one of its ensembles when she was young, and recently returned as an alumna. Playing classical music and taking instrument lessons at COS have enriched her life, as well as my family’s, with tremendous, unique, and long lasting effect.
Children with varied capabilities are being nurtured and challenged at COS. Opportunities to move to higher levels of ensembles are open to all who would rise to the “calling”. Many of the children take such strides from term to term, and year to year, that they blossom into budding musicians, who are realizing their own potential and talent with joy and pride.
COS’ music faculty members are mostly its alumni, and distinguished musicians. Through their teaching and conducting the ensembles and orchestras, they create such encouraging atmosphere that the young musicians clearly enjoy playing classical music together, and grow together.
Under the unflappable managership of Ms. Park, COS’s administrative staff members run such an orderly operation, that children and parents are certain when, where, and what they are going and playing. Taking into consideration of various ensembles and classes, each of them has its own assigned schedule, room, and music, chairs, music stands, etc. etc., Ms. Park and her associates steadily accomplish a truly remarkable feat.
COS is led by Dr. Ma, the Executive Director, and her husband Mr. Dadap, the Artistic & Music Director, both eminent musicians themselves.
Mr. Dadap is a classical guitarist, composer, and a tireless music educator,
in addition to his regular conductorship. Listening to Mr. Dadap playing
Romance d’Amour on a rare occasion, it was quite a moving experience indeed.
Dr. Ma herself was a musical prodigy, who plays the violin, viola, and the
piano. She has a command of many languages such as French, English, German,
Italian, and Chinese. And, she is a Harvard educated pediatrician who specializes
in child development. How fitting that Dr. Ma, with such an extraordinary
combination of accomplishments and talents, is leading Children’s
Orchestra Society. She has steadfastly carried on the mission, which was
founded by her father, for more than three decades, and continues to make
COS thrive and grow.
Between Dr. Ma and Mr. Dadap, there is a bright, dry wit, whose presence is
felt throughout the society all the time – while Mr. Dadap often gives oratories
filled with sparkling sense of humor, Dr. Ma, quietly amusing.

One can’t help but marveling at COS’ logo. It is a truly clever design with
simple lines, of a children’s ensemble. It conveys an unequivocal sentiment
of delight, confidence, and serenity. The logo was created by the Dadaps’ son,
Daniel, another talented musician, when he was only seven years old.
The Dadaps’ daughter Laura, is yet another talented Musician -- an actively
performing singer and actress. In addition, she is an accomplished chef, who
creates her own cuisine with her Filipino heritage.

Readers of this review: if you like what you have just read about Children’s Orchestra Society, bring your child(ren) and join the COS family.
S.L.

Children’s Orchestra Society (COS) in Syosset, New York, is an excellent music organization for kids to join. Under the leadership of Director Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma and maestro Michael Dadap, COS has grown to seven orchestras and ensembles over the years. In addition to performing programs, COS offers music theory and other musicianship classes making it like a conservatory of music. My daughter plays in the Junior Symphonic Ensemble for the second year and she enjoys it so much that Saturday (regular rehearsal) has become her favorite day in a week!

COS has a professional and knowledgeable faculty from whom students have learned a lot in music interpretation and performing skills; a hard-working staff who manage schedules and facilities for so many groups in an efficient way; and a supporting PTA which creates and maintains a friendly environment for children to learn and enjoy making music. I highly recommend COS.

My both children attended COS for four years. It was a great experience for them. They had fun and learned how to become musicians. Thank you COS.

I was a member of COS for 13 years. I started at age 5 with violin lessons and continued up until I graduated from high school. The private lessons, theory classes, chamber music, and orchestral experiences I had there enabled me to get a full-tuition scholarship at one of the finest music conservatories in the country (Peabody Conservatory). The love, care, and dedication the teachers and staff show is unprecedented. Now, as a mother of 2, and a professional violist playing in orchestras for a living, I can only thank COS with all my heart for fueling the "fire in MY belly" so I can do what I love and support my family. A million thanks, Yeou-Cheng and Michael.

COS gave me many gifts in my life over my 11 years there for which I am forever grateful: Kind friends who became an extended family, a deep passion for music, the exposure to many major works in orchestral repertoire, a heart-warming community to come to each weekend, a chance to tour the world, and up-close and personal opportunities to play with world-class soloists, to name a few. As a current professional musician in an orchestra, I am often filled with amazing memories whenever I play a piece I first learned at COS, and in awe of the work Michael and Yeou-Cheng continue to do every year.

COS is an organization that should be generously supported so it can thrive for generations to come!!

COS is an incredible organization that has played a huge role throughout my time in high school. They have great and skilled staff members and mentor students very well. I've had such a wonderful experience in their orchestra ensembles and grew as a musician through my experience there. I highly recommend COS for any youths who are interested in playing music with a group of motivated young musicians!

It is a pleasure for me to write this! As a long-time former faculty member, and also as a parent of a child who participated in COS, I saw first-hand the impact COS has had on scores of children and their families. In addition to - and perhaps more important than - the fine musical education it provides, COS also provides a warm, nurturing sense of community, and of mutual responsibility, which has helped many kids as they navigate growing up. And this communal, family atmosphere is of major importance in today's fractured wold. Any child in COS feels that the adults believe in them, and are rooting for them to succesfully fulfill their musical and personal responsibilities, at whatever level they are. One can find many music programs for children and teens, but COS offers something very special to the child and the whole family.

My daughter joined COS 3 years ago. It has been an amazing experience. Through COS, my daughter had the unique opportunities to tour China, played at the United Nation, played at Carnegie hall and many other venues. Dr. Ma, Michael Dadap, the staffs, the teachers are always kind, warm and friendly. I am so drawn to the music and often find myself sitting in the auditorium watching the rehearsals and submerge in the beautiful music that they create. Through this nurturing environment, my daughter has grown so much as a musician and as a person. The music, the experience and the friendship will stay with her for the rest of her life.

When I think back on my time as a student at The Children's Orchestra Society (or COS, as we affectionately call it), I am reminded of the excellence and commitment, virtuosity and spirit that goes into this orchestra making it an indispensable cultural institution, not only on Long Island, but in our Nation.

Over half a century of incomparable and, I believe, peerless education in music-making, and maybe more importantly—introducing to countless generations what an art and what a joy making music together can be!

COS does great work in developing new ways of fostering an adoration for music in all its forms and facets, and I think I speak for all COS generations (past, present and future) when I say that we all learned to come to feel a sense of responsibility—of duty—to music, both individually and collectively.

Michael and Yeou-Cheng have been some of my most fantastic acquaintances in my musical life, and I can’t thank them and the whole COS family enough: all of the drive that I have for the work, and any wisdom that I may possess I owe a great debt to COS for, for instilling it in me, for planting the seeds, and making me want to carry the torch.

The COS has provided me with a community that goes beyond their wonderful music instruction. I believe deeply in their mission of teaching children the language of music and the service they provide to Tri-State area families. Through COS children are provided a place to flourish musically and socially. For the child that joins and realizes playing music may not be for them there’s room to explore the many roles that work together to produce top notch concerts and programming.
My own personal experience dates back to the 1980s when I joined as an unmotivated violinist. Dr. Ma and maestro Dadap were incredibly patient and supportive. They allowed me the space and opportunity to try many other instruments eventually landing on something that fit better. I remained in the orchestra until graduating HS and then returned after college to act as production manager; a job i was happy to take though I had a corporate job waiting for me. Years later I returned again to COS with my own child.

I could write a novel with how impactful COS has been on the trajectory of my life. Instead I will leave it at saying COS holds a very special place in my heart and it brings me great joy to support them.

COS cares about each and every student, and really practices what it preaches in terms of teaching children the language of music. I was a part of the orchestra and also attended individual music lessons, music theory class, and chamber ensemble lessons until heading off to college in 2006. The staff were dedicated, talented, and compassionate. Through the many programs at COS, I learned musicianship but also gained friendships, confidence and had role models to look up to. I was proud of what I learned there as a student.

Great people with lots of love for music and the world.
Fantastic work.

when I was growing up on Long Island, I wanted to get more experience playing in orchestras and I found COS. It was invaluable to my growth as a musician and as an artist. I made great music, great friends, and played great concerts in great concert halls. It was a beautiful place for me to explore my love of music.

Both my daughters have been COS orchestra members for years. Participating in COS has been a wonderful experience that we would recommend to anyone who values musical education and enrichment.

When I reflect on some of my happiest memories during late adolescence / early adulthood, many of them were performing music. And in performing music, COS holds a very special place in my heart.

It's been about ten years since I've performed with COS, but I will never forget that night we performed at Carnegie Hall. The feeling of self-actualization attained through performing the beautiful music we refined and practiced after months of rehearsal and years of practice. It was truly a magical experience and I remember distinctly feeling like if life had ended that same night, it would have been a fulfilling life well-lived.

Children's Orchestra Society provides a safe and welcoming home to young musicians, free of judgment and pressure and committed purely to nurture talent and provide these musicians with the same platform and magical opportunities that I had experienced. For many of us, these are cherished moments that will provide warmth and perspective for the rest of our lives.

The COS is a great organization and deserves recognition as one of the most outstanding nonprofit music programs for the youth in the Metropolitan area. I had the privilege of performing as a soloist in their annual Discovery Gala Concert at Alice Tully Hall, and the students are nothing short of a joy and inspiration to work with. Maestro Dadap and Dr. Ma are immensely positive influences, and they instill a real sense of musicianship and responsibility in the students. Not only does COS strive for musical excellence in all of their classes and performances, but they also teach the students about leadership and what it means for an individual to be an integral part of their community. Making beautiful music and empowering students to be better citizens - what more could you ask for? They are awesome, and will continue to do great things!

Performance is what COS is all about, because the faculty at COS truly believe in the power of music to communicate. There is a lot of pleasure in learning an instrument, but for a student to become a musician she needs to learn performance as well. COS provides that venue, along with discipline, support and camaraderie that foster a rich experience. COS is a great tradition!

COS has been the ultimate experience thus far! Everyone associated with the COS community is extremely supportive, friendly, and great. This is where students, family, and friends come together and enjoy working together. Not only does COS provide an extraordinary musical experience (working with amazing faculty and performances at Lincoln Center), but it also provides a second home. I love spending my time at COS and wish I could go back in time to relive it again!!!

My daughter is a student at COS and I can say that our experience has been wonderful. It is not only the excellence in teaching that have have impressed us, but rather the family atmosphere in this organization and the dedication of the teaching staff and executives to make a profound impact in our children developing on them a love for music. In addition, COS is dedicated to help children at all levels, especially those with financial needs, learn the language of music. This is really a wonderful place for young children to learn how to play the instrument of their choice, for those already playing to develop their skills and those advance players to sharpen their skills.

I absolutely loved my time playing with COS! I made lots of wonderful friends and have the bragging rights to say that I've played at Lincoln Center! The Children's Orchestra Society is run by organized, dedicated, caring people, and I was extremely fortunate to have been served by Yeou-Cheng, Michael, and their music teachers :)

COS is the home of music. Kids, parents and teachers work together with a goal for the best for our kids. There is a healthy environment,it is so heartfelt that it touches friendships. For our second year sending our kids to COS, we deeply feel that we are sending them to a caring family and long time friends every Saturday. Teachers care for their improvement and share their accomplishments in the classroom, they are very supportive as a group. They all surround a community that teaches the kids the value of caring for others. COS has a buddy club,teams of older and experienced musicians celebrate the younger kids birthdays,show them around each level of the orchestra,gather to celebrate holiday or parties. Their caring taught my kids of their friendships and gave them a path to follow. The Parent’s Association is incredible, their involvement touched my heart. Organized by moms & dads, everyone has so much energy and enthusiasm for this music school. Everyone supports the school and helps out with running fundraisers and getting together to support this music school. It's like we all share together and build this school together. Everyone there is doing it because their hearts are in it. Deep in our hearts, we know we have come to the right place.

The Childrens Orchestra Society (COS) is a wonderful organization that truly teaches children the language of Music. It is selflessly directed by Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma and Michael Dadap along with a dedicated faculty and staff. COS provided my children with unparalleled opportunities to devlop as musicians and as people. The COS approach is multi-faceted with learning provided both in an orchestra setting and private instrumental instruction as well as musicianship classes. Both of my children were inspired to continue serious study of music in college after COS. Another important aspect of COS is camarderie both among students and among the parents and with faculty and staff. It's really like a family where many lasting friendships occur. My children were also provided with amazing opportunities of performing with top professionals at Carnegie Hall and other notable venues even in other US cities and abroad. Despite difficult economic times and a tight budger COS is always ready to help with scholarship assistance for those who could not otherwise participate. COS is a top-notch organization that should be gerously supported for the outstanding services that it so skillfully provides. My family will always cherish the relationship we've had with COS for more than a decade.

My daughter started learning to play the violin at age 2 with Yeou-cheng Ma at COS. At the beginning of time, I didn't expect she could learn the violin play. However, Yeou-cheng Ma managed my daugher to read music notes and play the violin after a month! Now she is so proud of herself with the violin and her age is 3. Dr. Ma is specially good to teach the violin and music language to very young children with big love for child.

I enjoyed working with the Children's Orchestra Society when I performed as a soloist with them at Lincoln Center. We played the Tchaikovsky Rococo Variations together. It is not an easy piece for orchestra, even professional orchestra, but the Children did a great job. They were very attentive throughout the rehearsals and were very focused. They were eager to learn and do their best. I believe that the Orchestra Society is doing a great job for these kids by giving them the gift of music. Wherever the paths will lead these kids to in life, they will take this experience with them which will help to do well. Hai-Ye Ni Principal cellist of Philadelphia Orchestra

While now I am a board member of the Children's Orchestra Society (COS), I previously was the president of the COS Parents' Association, where I was very actively involved helping COS with any of their concerts from getting food to feed the kids to fund raising to support their programs. So I am quite familar with COS. My daughter was a member for for 9 years. So as a parent, I got to know both Yeou-Cheng and Michael who run the program. COS is a wonderful music program that truly "teaches the language of music". It is a nurturing environment that provides orchestra, chamber music, musicianship. The kids learn musicianship in a small classroom setting which gives them foundation for understanding how music is put together. The chamber music groups help the kids develop and grow in their playing abilities and the orchestra gives the kids the chance to play orchestral pieces of the highest level (which challenge them and make them better players). The kids in the highest level orhestra have a chance to play at a world renowned concert halls like Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall. So they get exposure to playing at the highest level but in an environment that is supportive and caring. I would recommend kids of all levels of playing to join COS and see why I had my child in there from when she was in the youngest orchestra to when she performed in senior orchestra where they played works by the greatest composers.

In my two years plus of sending my children there I have been truly impressed with the atmosphere and staff at COS. They instill a love for music, while insisting on discipline - both personal and musical. They work with children at all levels of talent getting the best out of them. The dedication of teachers is outstanding. Children develop strong bonds during their time there, each serving as a posiive influence for the others - not only in music, but in general discipline, etc. My children will never forget the years that they spent there, and will take the experience with them wherever they go.

The Children's Orchestra Society is a unique organization that brings children and teens of diverse backgrounds together to play classical music. It is a vibrant community of extraordinary people coming together around a shared interest. It was the first place I ever really felt a sense of belonging. The world needs more of this!

COS is an inspiring musical opportunity for young students, taking them from 4 -5 year olds in a kinder orchestra to high school students in a young symphonic ensemble that can play at Carnegie Hall or Alice Tully Hall and get rave reviews from the NY Times. The quality of the musicianship, the dedication of the teachers, staff and conductors, the interaction and socialization offered to a diverse group of children is a special experience that deserves support during these challenging times.

Our family has been involved with the Children's Orchestra Society for 12 years. My older son played violin & viola and my younger son, now currently involved, plays percussion. COS is a phenomenal organization run by Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma – Exec. Dir. & Micheal Dadap-Music Director & Conductor. The organization both encourages and challenges children to perform music at extraordinary levels. Both my children have learned and grown in their music education as a result of being a part of COS. The professional staff of music teachers is top shelf, working professionals who offer the best music education the area can offer. Their teachers’ attention to detail and personal interaction with students is outstanding. As a result, COS students consistently rank the highest and participate in All State, All County, the Long Island String Festival and numerous other music competitions. At COS, students have the opportunity to participate in orchestras, chamber groups, ensembles, master classes, recitals and also tours. COS has toured both nationally and internationally, another wonderful opportunity for students to not only grow as a musician, but bond as a member of renowned orchestra.

This is an outstanding organization run by highly talented and passionate people who serve to teach children the art of music. The children in COS (The Children's Orchestra Society) range in age from 3 to 18 years old. They attend COS to learn an instrument(s), and musicianship in a highly nurturing environment. COS fosters a love of learning. This provides the environment for the children to excel and develop their talents. Children not only grow musically, but they mature as a result of the on going manners of the leadership of the school. They are devoted to these children and set examples for them about what kind of adults they'd like to be. My daughter started with piano at age 4. She has since asked me to let her learn violin at age 6. Then, last year at age 7 she also wanted to learn viola. I am fortunate that she loves music, but it is her love for learning that has been cultivated at COS that has inspired her to want more. She has joined the orchestra and looks forward every week to playing and performing. She is sad when summer comes and orchestra is finished for the year. The organization is like our second family. I know where my child is, what she is doing, and I am there with her all the time. It is a learning place and a family place.

I am an alumni - COS '93 Children's Orchestra Society is a big, musical family; it is an organization that gives young musicians in New York City an opportunity to play music and make friends. From age 11 to 18, I happily attended rehearsals every Saturday evening, and have fond memories of our two to three hour rehearsals. Often our rehearsals would seem like a party, with classical music. To this day, I treasure my friendships with the members of the orchestra and their families. I am grateful to Michael and Yeou Cheng for nurturing us for so many years, and always providing us the best opportunities to perform and share our music. They are wonderful, generous, and always ready to help others.

It was a pretty well-run organization and I learned a lot from my experience in the orchestra, which really shaped me as a young music student. The people involved in COS were all very dedicated to working with young children/adolescents and really inspiring a love of music in them.

Music is the center of my life. As a child, I was helping my father [also Yo-Yo Ma's father] to tune the instruments, and set up stands, and learned the importance of teamwork. However, teaching young American kids was a challenge, because they challenged the teacher's authority. I could never imagine that I would end up inheriting this orchestra, and become responsible for building young lives through the language of music. As an adult, I have witnessed miracles happen to kids who were disgruntled, angry, misfits, who found soul-mates, and playmates that made their complex lives, and personal losses more bearable, and appreciate the beauty of young people growing together in the love of music. For me personally, music has been a life-saver in holding things together in times of crisis and sorrow, and has taught me the value of building community through generations. Many of our graduates now are part of major symphony orchestras, and others have become teachers, while still others are still experiencing the joy of music-making, while having other day jobs. The Children's Orchestra Society serves children from age 3-18, and was brought out of its 7 year dormancy when my husband and I bet our mortgage in 1983 to restart it, in the basement of our home. Now, 27 years later, we have graduated thousands of students, and some have started families of their own, and have brought us their children to train. We have been reviewed by the NY Times in the past 4 years, and Children's Orchestra Society is cited by Anthony Tommasini as one of two thriving youth orchestras in NYC, along with the New York Youth Symphony. [NYTimes, Youth Movement, New York Edition, July 9, 2010] Despite its ambitious programs, the organization still operates on a shoestring. Funding from tuition has increased from 33% to 60%, but it is a tremendous challenge to raise the other 40% from foundations, corporations and individual donations. Recent economic developments have forced much belt tightening and reduction of services. However we are heartened by continuing support from the community and an increase in younger members, which will eventually benefit the organization by the longevity of their residency.

I have had the fortunate opportunity to attend several performances given by the Children's Orchestra Society in various NYC venues, including Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center. These young students are simply amazing! The COS performances are such a joy to watch and listen to, and it is wonderful to see such incredible talent on stage. The dedication and committment that the teachers and students have undertaken in furthering their musicality should certainly be commended.