ICYOLA Academy

Education + Enrichment

Discover Musical Excellence at the ICYOLA Academy

The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) is dedicated to transforming young lives through the transcendent power of classical music. We provide comprehensive musical training to youth from underserved communities, fostering not only artistic excellence but also essential life skills that extend far beyond the concert hall.

Our educational approach combines rigorous orchestral training with individualized mentorship, creating a supportive environment where students develop discipline, teamwork, and self-expression. Through weekly rehearsals, sectionals, and group instruction, students master challenging repertoire while building critical thinking and collaborative skills.

ICYOLA’s curriculum emphasizes both Western classical traditions and diverse musical heritage, including works by African American composers and contemporary artists. This cultural inclusivity helps students see themselves represented in classical music while broadening their artistic horizons. Our program serves as a catalyst for academic success, with many participants achieving higher grades and continuing to prestigious universities. Beyond musical achievement, we nurture leadership, responsibility, and confidence – qualities that empower our students to excel in all aspects of life.

By making high-quality musical education accessible to inner-city youth, ICYOLA works to create a more equitable and culturally rich future for Los Angeles. Transform your child’s musical journey through ICYOLA Academy’s comprehensive after-school program. Our expert instructors guide young musicians in both instrumental performance and music theory, creating a strong foundation in classical music education.

ICYOLA Education & Enrichment Framework

Musical Excellence

Everyone is developing: We embrace the continual musical journey of each student at every level. Understanding that artistic community flourishes when individuals respect both shared experiences and unique talents, we COMMIT to nurturing musical growth and celebrating each student’s voice within our orchestral family.

Cultural Representation

We center diverse musical traditions: Creating accessible spaces where all musical backgrounds are honored and explored. Understanding the need for inclusive environments where young musicians from all communities can thrive, we COMMIT to being cultural ambassadors who use music to communicate the following values: Heritage, Expression, Connection, and Joy.

Artistic Inquiry

Critical listening, interpretation, and performance: This approach to musicianship seeks to explore diverse musical narratives, understand historical contexts, and orient performances toward cultural appreciation. We COMMIT to being teaching artists who amplify underrepresented musical traditions through thoughtful study, respectful interpretation, and meaningful performance.

Access Evaluation

Assessments with actionable solutions: Recognition of barriers to music education and the determination to remove them. We COMMIT to be innovative music educators who collectively work against limitations in music access by dismantling obstacles that prevent young people from experiencing orchestral music education.

Musical Citizenship

Reflective Practice, Community Engagement, and Artistic Leadership: We believe in cultivating a cycle of musical development and community service that uses orchestral music to build bridges. We COMMIT to reflective music-making that transforms communities and creates pathways for youth to become the next generation of orchestra musicians, composers, and arts leaders.

Sonic Liberation

Music as freedom and transformation: We recognize music’s historical role in movements for justice and its power to transcend boundaries, heal wounds, and imagine new possibilities. Understanding that orchestral training provides tools for both personal and collective liberation, we COMMIT to fostering musical experiences that empower youth to find their authentic voice, challenge limiting narratives, and use orchestral artistry as a vehicle for self-determination and social change.

Education Programming

ICYOLA Prelude Ensemble

Our Prelude Ensemble serves as our foundational music program which introduces young musicians to the joy of playing string and woodwind instruments through engaging, step-by-step instruction. Students begin with instrument selection, proper handling, and basic care, progressing to fundamental techniques like bow control or breath support. Weekly group lessons combine with individual practice assignments to build core musicianship skills. Through fun exercises, simple melodies, and ensemble play, students develop proper posture, finger placement, and music reading abilities. Our supportive environment encourages creativity while establishing strong technical foundations. By season’s end, students perform confidently in small ensembles, ready to advance to intermediate (ICYOLA Symphony) instruction.

ICYOLA Symphony

Building on fundamental skills, our Symphony program serves as our intermediate string program which challenges young musicians to reach new heights of artistry and technical proficiency. Students explore advanced bowing techniques, vibrato, position work, and sophisticated rhythmic patterns while expanding their musical repertoire. Through chamber music and orchestral experiences, performers develop refined ensemble skills, tonal awareness, and interpretive abilities. Weekly sectionals focus on instrument-specific techniques, while theory instruction deepens understanding of harmony and musical structure. Personal expression and musicality are emphasized alongside technical growth. Regular performance opportunities, including solo recitals and chamber concerts, build confidence and showcase students’ developing artistry.

Program Structure (October 2024 – July 2025):

Prelude Ensemble (Beginner)

• Sundays: 4 – 4:45 p.m.
• Wednesdays: 4 – 5:15 p.m.

Symphony (Intermediate)

• Sundays: 5 – 5:45 p.m.
• Wednesdays: 5:30 – 6:45 p.m.

Lead Violin Instructor – Amber Daughtry

Lead Viola Instructor – Larry Joe Williams III

Lead Cello Instructor – Nick Anton

Enrichment Programming

The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) transcends conventional musical education by offering a holistic enrichment program that cultivates both artistic excellence and crucial life competencies. Beyond instrumental instruction, ICYOLA integrates comprehensive development through specialized programs in life skills, etiquette, literacy enhancement, youth empowerment, and leadership training. This multifaceted approach produces well-rounded musicians equipped for success in both artistic and professional spheres, embodying ICYOLA’s dedication to nurturing the complete individual through the transformative power of music education.

Our Prelude Ensemble (beginner) and ICYOLA Symphony (intermediate) programs are currently full for the 2024-25 season. Registration for our next cohort of students opens on September 1, 2025. Please check back then for registration information.

To express your interest in joining our next cohort, please complete this form.

Please contact Chuckie Dickerson at [email protected] with any questions.