It’s not unusual for kids to attend band camps in the summer, but campers aren’t usually cops, too.

For eight weeks this summer, officers from the University Circle Police Department joined the kids participating in Inspiration Through Music, a partnership between UCPD and the Center for Arts Inspired Learning in Cleveland. The initiative provides young would-be musicians, who may not have access to lessons and instruments on their own, the opportunity and equipment to explore their musical personalities. For the officers, the weekly lessons in which they learned side by side with the children were a chance to informally interact with them. In fact, they purposely opted out of wearing their uniforms.

“[S]taff were encouraging us to kind of just let them see us as human,” Officer Gloria Mercado told WKYC. “First, we didn’t get the idea of it, because we’re like, ‘Well, how would they know we’re officers?’ But with time, when they realized we’re officers, you could see their faces still, you know, [be] more excited about it.”

Mercado, who plays the conga drums, also told American Police Beat, “The program was designed to build positive relationships between police officers and young people through the universal language of music. Throughout the sessions, officers and students learned and performed music together, fostering trust, communication and mutual understanding in an environment that encouraged creativity, teamwork and connection.”

Throughout the two months, everyone learned to trust their ears and each other. The ensemble hit a high note on July 25 when the group played a concert for family, friends and the community. Of course, for such an auspicious occasion, the cops-turned-musicians deemed it worthy of a uniform appearance.

“I’ve never had to learn something with kids in that facet,” Mercado explained. “But being able to go week after week — watching the commitment, watching the growth, watching the friendship develop — that’s a different level. It means a lot to me, and I would love to see more things like that.”

Inspiration Through Music was funded by two individuals associated with the Cleveland Police Foundation. Mercado confirms the funders liked what they heard and have extended their support for another session.

“[It] will enable us to expand upon the success of this year’s program and continue strengthening relationships between law enforcement and Cleveland youth through music,” she said.