Iris Cao | ECHO
Iris Cao
For many young people, learning music isn’t just about mastering an instrument or a difficult piece; it's about discovering confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging. Yet for countless students, access to quality music education seems too far out of reach.
Determined to change that, Iris Cao, CEO and a member of the Class of 2027 at Novi High School, alongside Catherine Hu, COO, Class of 2026 at Novi High School and incoming student at MIT, founded a youth-led nonprofit, ECHO, with the goal of democratizing access to music education for underserved students.
What began as a student-led initiative has grown into a global movement, proving that young people can transform education on an international scale.
Today, the organization has reached students in 31 countries and 94 schools, providing more than 1,300 music lessons while making music education more accessible to communities around the world.
Their impact extends far beyond individual lessons. Through engaging educational content on social media, the team has reached more than 400,000 people, sharing rhythm exercises, free music resources, practice strategies, and opportunities that help students develop their musical abilities regardless of their background or financial circumstances.
Recognizing that music can also play a meaningful role in healing and emotional well-being, the organization partnered with PediaCare Bridge to provide music lessons to more than 800 pediatric patients across 50 hospitals nationwide, bringing moments of creativity and joy to children during challenging times.
Closer to home, the team has hosted five local music camps in the Detroit area, creating hands-on learning experiences that inspire students while building stronger community connections.
Along the way, the organization has partnered with PediaCare Bridge and Strings of Hope Detroit, and has been recognized as a recipient of the Karma for Cara Microgrant. ECHO’s work has also been featured by Rose Tinted Ceilings and the National Flute Association, highlighting the growing impact of its mission.
By making music education more accessible, they aren't just teaching students how to play an instrument. They're helping the next generation find its voice.
