Spotlight Interviews with Music Educators
Soo Bae - Founder and Artistic Director of Angelos Mission Ensemble
Q. What communities does AME primarily serve, and how do you reach or connect with those students?
A. AME serves a diverse range of students, including talented young musicians, students from underserved communities, immigrant families, homeschool communities, and students who may not otherwise have access to advanced music training or mentorship opportunities.
We connect with students through partnerships with schools, churches, community organizations, music teachers, and word-of-mouth referrals. We also work closely with families to identify barriers that may prevent students from participating, and we strive to provide scholarships and financial assistance whenever possible.
Q. Can you walk us through one of AME’s outreach efforts and the impact it has had on students or the community?
A. One of AME’s most meaningful outreach efforts is our scholarship and mentorship program, which provides students with financial assistance, high-level musical training, and opportunities to use their gifts to serve others through outreach performances.
One memorable experience took place after a summer program when our students performed at a community venue. Afterward, an elderly woman shared, with tears in her eyes, that the music had brought her peace and joy during a difficult season of life.
Another powerful outreach opportunity was through our partnership with New York City Relief, where our students performed for individuals experiencing homelessness. After one of our a cappella groups sang “You Are an Overcomer,” a woman who was visibly distressed began crying and told our students that the song gave her renewed hope and strength.
Experiences like these help our students see firsthand that music can heal, encourage, and transform lives. They leave with a deeper sense of purpose and a greater understanding that artistic excellence is ultimately about serving and uplifting others.
Q. How does participating in AME’s programs affect students academically, emotionally, or socially?
A. The impact extends far beyond music. Academically, students learn discipline, goal setting, time management, and critical thinking. Emotionally, they develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Socially, they become part of a supportive community where they form meaningful friendships and learn collaboration, leadership, and service.
Many parents tell us that their children become more motivated in school, more confident in public settings, and more willing to take on challenges after participating in AME programs.
We are honored to feature Soo Bae, founder and artistic director of Angelos Mission Ensemble (AME), an organization dedicated to making high-quality music education and mentorship accessible to students from all backgrounds. We had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about her vision for AME, her dedication to young musicians, and the impact of music as a tool for education, service, and community connection.
Q. Can you briefly describe your role as founder of AME and the specific programs or initiatives you lead?
A. As the founder and artistic director of Angelos Mission Ensemble, my role is to oversee the vision, programming, and outreach efforts of the organization. AME was founded with the mission of making high-quality music education and mentorship accessible to students from all backgrounds.
I lead several of our core initiatives, including our summer music programs, private mentorship opportunities, community outreach concerts, scholarships for underserved students, and collaborations with professional musicians and educators. I am also actively involved in curriculum development, fundraising, partnership building, and personally mentoring young musicians.
Q. Can you share a specific story of a student impacted by AME?
A. In 2020, AME students rallied around an 11-year-old girl named Ellie who was battling terminal cancer. Her family was overwhelmed by medical expenses and unable to afford meaningful time away together. Through fundraising efforts led by our students and community, we raised over $20,000 to help the family take a special vacation and create lasting memories with Ellie and her three siblings.
Although Ellie passed away shortly afterward, the experience profoundly impacted our students. They learned that music and service can be powerful tools for bringing hope, comfort, and love to people during their most difficult moments. It was a beautiful reminder that the impact of AME extends far beyond musical training.
Q. What has been the most meaningful or impactful moment for you since starting AME?
A. The most meaningful moments are often not the large performances or public successes, but the personal transformations we witness. Seeing a student discover confidence, find their voice, overcome obstacles, and realize that someone believes in their potential is incredibly powerful.
One of my greatest joys has been watching former students return as mentors, volunteers, and role models. Seeing the next generation invest in those coming behind them reflects the heart of AME’s mission and demonstrates that the impact extends far beyond a single program.
Q. What kinds of support would help AME expand its outreach and impact?
Sustainable funding is essential for expanding scholarships, reducing financial barriers, and reaching more students. Strategic partnerships with schools, community organizations, churches, foundations, and arts institutions would also help us connect with underserved populations more effectively.
In addition, greater recognition of the arts as an essential component of education would enable organizations like AME to play a larger role in student development. Investments in arts education, mentorship programs, and community-based initiatives have the potential to transform lives and strengthen communities for generations to come.
Closing Reflection
Soo Bae’s work through Angelos Mission Ensemble demonstrates the powerful role music can play in education, mentorship, healing, and service. Through AME, students are not only trained as musicians but also encouraged to become leaders who use their gifts to bring hope and beauty to others. At Equal Notes, we are inspired by AME’s commitment to accessible music education and its belief that young musicians can make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Angelos Misson Ensemble’s Summer Camp Summary Video: The Renewed Heart (2025)