nThe Inner city Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA), the largest predominantly Black orchestra in the United States, is set to celebrate Black History Month with a series of performances in February. Founded in 2009 by Charles Dickerson, the orchestra has grown from a six-week summer project into a transformative force in the lives of young musicians. On February 9, ICYOLA will take the stage at the Wilshire ebell Theater, marking a milestone in its 16-year journey.
Dickerson, who serves as the executive director and conductor, reflects on the orchestra’s humble beginnings. “When this ensemble began in 2009,” he shared, “I thought it was a summer project that would last six weeks.” Today, ICYOLA stands as a testament to the power of music education and community impact. The orchestra’s mission extends beyond cultivating musical talent; it aims to instill principles and habits that enrich every aspect of its members’ lives. “These young people, they’re the greatest young people in the world,” Dickerson emphasized. “We do not do what we do with this orchestra with the expectation that young people will necessarily become professional musicians … We want the principles and practices and habits that we develop to transfer to all aspects of their lives.”
The Black History Month concert will feature a powerful program that honors the African American experience. highlights include Margaret Bonds’s Montgomery Variations, inspired by pivotal moments in the civil rights movement, and Florence Price’s arrangement of the spiritual “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” The orchestra will also perform “Lift every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the “Black national anthem.” Adding a personal touch, ICYOLA will showcase works by its own members, including Kenichi Fortune’s Festival Overture and Trial and Triumph, a collaborative piece by Kenichi and Kevon Fortune.
ICYOLA’s impact extends far beyond the stage. As a member of the league of American Orchestras, Dickerson is committed to fostering excellence and inclusivity in classical music. The orchestra’s performances are not just concerts; they are celebrations of resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage.
| Event Highlights | Details |
|———————-|———|
| Date | February 9, 2025 |
| Venue | Wilshire Ebell Theatre |
| Featured Works | Margaret Bonds’s Montgomery Variations, Florence Price’s “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” kenichi Fortune’s Festival Overture, Trial and Triumph by Kenichi and Kevon Fortune |
| Mission | Transforming lives thru music education and community impact |
Don’t miss this possibility to witness the extraordinary talent and dedication of ICYOLA. Join them at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre on February 9 for a night of music, history, and inspiration.