History

A Washington, DC area based, non-profit organization, with outreach throughout the nation, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) was founded in 2003 by classical musicians brother and sister team Victor Simonson and Pamela Simonson, along with a collective of artists and arts lovers, seeking to create performance opportunities for African American classical musicians and performing artists, as well as introducing the classical music genre and other art forms to African American audiences. 

The native New Yorkers sought to bring their love and passion for classical music to African American organizations, individuals, and companies. As beneficiaries of organizations and groups who supported their talent in the arts as youth, they desired to provide a platform for others, to “give back to their community.”  CAAPA is their way of saying thank you to their “village.”  The musicians now live by the credo of…” Bring color to the classics!” 

The CAAPA team desires to promote and support all performers and diligently seeks to recognize talent by helping to broaden the audience’s consciousness and stimulate the appreciation of the contributions of African American classical artists.  

If you know a talented classical musician who desires support, contact CAAPA today.  

CAAPA needs your support to continue working in the community and appreciates your love and support for the arts! Please help bring a classical voice to color!