About

Established in 2009, the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming young lives in Inner City Los Angeles through exceptional music education. We introduce youth to outstanding music from various traditions and create opportunities for them to perform in distinguished venues across our community. Our program cultivates musical excellence while fostering essential life skills: problem-solving, critical thinking, self-reliance, confidence, discipline, and meaningful ambition.

Our Mission

Our mission is to cultivate musical expression as a vehicle for personal development, and to bring to fruition the full musical and academic potential of young inner-city residents of Los Angeles.

Our Vision

ICYOLA envisions a Los Angeles where all inner-city youth access transformative musical education, developing them not just as musicians but as confident, disciplined individuals ready for success in all areas of life. We believe musical excellence and personal growth create a foundation for lifelong achievement, community connection, and meaningful societal contribution.