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 private 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.
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 (Beginners)
- Sundays: 4 – 4:45 p.m.
- Wednesdays: 4 – 5:45 p.m.
Symphony (Intermediate)
- Sundays: 5 – 5:45 p.m.
- Wednesdays: 5:45 – 7 p.m.
All instruction takes place at:
Knox Presbyterian Church 5840 S La Tijera Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90056
Enrichment Programming
The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) extends far beyond traditional musical training, offering a comprehensive enrichment program that develops both artistic excellence and essential life skills. At its core, the orchestra provides rigorous musical instruction, teaching students to master classical repertoire while fostering discipline, teamwork, and artistic expression.
ICYOLA’s innovative music literacy program integrates musical education with language arts, helping students understand the deep connections between musical notation, reading comprehension, and creative expression. The media component teaches students to navigate digital platforms, create content, and build a positive online presence within the classical music community.
The organization’s etiquette courses prepare young musicians for professional settings, teaching social grace, public speaking, and networking skills essential for success in the classical music world. Students learn proper concert attire, performance and dining etiquette, and professional communication.
Financial literacy courses equip students with crucial money management skills, covering topics like budgeting, saving, and understanding contracts – particularly valuable in the music industry. This practical knowledge helps students build sustainable careers in music while developing sound financial habits.
Together, these programs create well-rounded musicians prepared for both artistic and professional success, reflecting ICYOLA’s commitment to developing the whole person through music education.
Want to join an education program? Please complete the ICYOLA Prelude Ensemble Registration Form.
Once you complete the form, please contact Chuckie at [email protected] to confirm.
Want to join an enrichment program? Please contact Chuckie at [email protected].
Please feel free to contact Chuckie with any questions as well.