The leading champion of new orchestral music by today’s most innovative and visionary composers, American Composers Orchestra will lead innovative learning experiences and premiere new works on the Merkin Hall stage.
Founded in 1977 by a collective of fearless musicians based in NYC, the ACO expands the definition of American orchestral music to ensure a vibrant and inclusive future. Over more than 40 years committed to artistry, creativity, community and equity, ACO has blossomed into a national institution that cultivates and develops the careers of living composers, providing a direct pipeline to meaningful partnerships with orchestras across the country.
As 2026-27 Kaufman Music Center Artists-in-Residence, you’ll find them on stage and in the classroom leading innovative learning experiences with our students and premiering new works by renowned professional composers as well as music by our students and community members. They’ll work with young musicians of all ages from Special Music School and Lucy Moses school on projects including improvisation and composition workshops and a series of masterclasses as well as chamber music and string orchestra coaching with composer/instrumentalists Curtis Stewart, Josh Henderson and Matthew Jamal culminating in numerous world premieres throughout the season in Merkin Hall.
APR 8 | Mentor Session featuring world premieres of works by Kaufman Music Center students
Leadership support for American Composers Orchestra’s Artist Residency is provided by The Roz Lasker Artist Mentorship Fund.
