Copper Country Suzuki Association

The Copper Country Suzuki Association (CCSA) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization based in Houghton, Michigan, dedicated to providing musical education and opportunities to students in the western region of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Founded with the goal of enriching the community and bringing joy to children through music, the CCSA has been a pivotal part of the area's cultural landscape for over three and a half decades. The origins of the CCSA can be traced back to 1971 when the Copper Country Intermediate School District received a state arts grant to purchase child-sized violins for a Suzuki program. The initial years saw dedicated teachers volunteering their time and actively recruiting young students to cultivate a love for music. The program's success was evident in the steady growth of student participation. In 1988, facing the retirement of both founding teachers and the need for a concertmaster for the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra at Michigan Technological University, the CCSA embarked on a national search to find an individual who could fulfill both roles. This initiative was met with overwhelming support from the local community, with contributions from individuals and businesses, and in-kind support from public schools and churches. The CCSA achieved nonprofit status in 1993, which led to significant financial backing from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA). The organization expanded its faculty to include two full-time teachers to cater to the growing demand for music education at various levels. The establishment of a youth orchestra further enhanced the CCSA's offerings, uniting young musicians from different school districts and fostering a sense of community beyond competitive school activities. Marking its 25th anniversary, the CCSA benefited from the addition of a professional cellist through an Artist-in-Residence grant awarded to the Houghton-Portage Township Schools. This collaboration allowed the CCSA to provide high-caliber instruction for cello and double bass, complementing its established violin and viola programs. Under the leadership of a director who is both a cellist and a conductor, the CCSA has continued to evolve. In 2002, the Keweenaw Youth Symphony Orchestra (KYSO) was founded, followed by the KYSO Preparatory Orchestra. The addition of piano instruction in 2005 further diversified the CCSA's educational offerings. The organization's financial stability was bolstered by an endowment established through the Keweenaw Community Foundation by an anonymous donor. The CCSA is known for its adaptability and its partnerships with other community arts programs. Despite the challenges of attracting teachers to the region, the CCSA has consistently secured talented artist-teachers who provide exceptional musicianship and learning experiences for community members of all ages and skill levels. The symbiotic relationship between Michigan Tech and the CCSA is a testament to their shared commitment to creating something beautiful through music and education. The CCSA continues to make a significant impact on the community, as evidenced by its active calendar of events, including student recitals, faculty performances, and concerts by the Keweenaw Youth Symphony Orchestra and ensembles. These events are often shared with the wider community through social media and online platforms, such as the CCSA's YouTube channel.