Source: Forbes
Music education is more than an opportunity to nurture talent. It is a powerful developmental tool that boosts language and cognitive abilities in young children. A focus on developing this skill paves neural pathways that are essential for mastering complex subjects like math and science. And studies have shown that engaging in music, especially classical music training, enhances brain function in children by improving memory, focus, and planning skills. Yet, despite these benefits, music education is often treated as a privilege, not the fundamental right it should be. A reality that disproportionately affects youth from inner-city neighborhoods where funding is scarce and deprives them of the diverse life pathways that music can offer.
This barrier extends into the professional classical music industry as well. In American orchestras, only about 2.4% of musicians are African American. Flutist and Associate Executive Director, Akilah Morgan who grew up in South Los Angeles, experienced this lack of representation firsthand. Often traveling far from her neighborhood to play with orchestras, she was reminded of her distinct otherness at each rehearsal. Now, as a founding member of the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) – the largest majority-Black orchestra in America – Morgan is actively working to ensure early and equitable access to classical music training for underrepresented communities. “We’re committed to keeping our programs within the community, instead of expecting students to travel long distances. We bring our programs directly to them—right in their churches and schools—making it easy and convenient for them to access,” Morgan explained. An approach that ensures future generations of musicians of color will not only participate but also know they truly belong.
By providing high-quality education and opening doors to the often inaccessible world of classical music training, ICYOLA is paving the way for its members to perform in the world’s most renowned venues and secure positions in major American orchestras. The opportunities that have emerged include a widely viewed collaboration with Imagine Dragons, which garnered 11 million views, a standout performance at the 2022 NFL Honors Award Show, and recognition as the official orchestra for California State University, Dominguez Hills. ICYOLA organizers emphasize that true alignment and a collective commitment are at the forefront of every partnership.
The Language of Music is Universal
Raised in a Caribbean household by parents from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Morgan was surrounded by the vibrant sounds of Calypso, Soca and Reggae. With these musical influences, she absorbed messages of multiculturalism, culture-building, and positivity. These principles now deeply influence her work and fuel her mission to create a better, more inclusive environment for the students she mentors.
Morgan’s time at Claflin University, the oldest Historically Black University in South Carolina, broadened her perspective even further. While majoring in Sociology and minoring in Music, she gained diverse experiences that expanded and shaped her worldview. She represented HBCUs in China, participated in humanitarian efforts in India, and conducted research in ethnomusicology in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. Each of these encounters reinforced her belief in the power of arts and culture as tools for community engagement and social change.
Guiding the Next Generation
Mentorship, a key pillar of Morgan’s mission to create change, is central to how ICYOLA operates. “I really do believe that once you advance, you have to reach back behind you and pull up the next person,” she said. The organization provides a space where young people can express themselves, grow, and work alongside mentors who reflect their own backgrounds. This approach offers a well-rounded education that extends beyond music to life skills. Morgan leverages her global experience to broaden students’ horizons, showing them possibilities beyond their neighborhoods and after graduation.
To prepare young members for success, ICYOLA has partnered with The Colburn School, a prestigious music institution in Los Angeles, to offer peer mentorship. Professionally trained students from Colburn provide ICYOLA members with free private lessons, helping them refine their skills and grow as musicians. This partnership is another way ICYOLA fosters a supportive environment and equips young musicians to compete in the industry and beyond.
Creating Pathways for Women in Leadership
Inclusion also means placing members from historically excluded groups in leadership roles. Women of color are significantly underrepresented in leadership across many sectors, including the arts. Advancing their roles requires targeted efforts and systemic change. When Morgan joined ICYOLA, the executive director, Charles “Chuck” Dickerson, introduced her to the Essentials of Orchestra Management, a program by the League of American Orchestras. The training gave her the opportunity to accelerate her learning and advance her leadership skills. Morgan explained, “Professional development helps our women take on roles like concertmaster and concert mistresses in the orchestra. We’ve had more women as concertmistresses than men, allowing them to lead sections and performances.” Ensuring they are compensated for their work is critical for building their confidence to lead and feel supported.
Unlocking Potential Through Music
The transformative power of music education goes beyond notes and rhythms, it empowers young people to see beyond their limitations. ICYOLA is dedicated to reaching youth from all walks of life to provide opportunities that uplift and equip them for success. One of these efforts is a drum corps program at Barry J Nidorf Juvenile Hall, where two instructors travel to Sylmar, California, twice a week to work with incarcerated youth. They teach drumming fundamentals, teamwork, and life skills, culminating in the participants’ first performance in November – a milestone that highlighted their personal and musical growth.
Additionally, ICYOLA runs a beginning strings program to address diversity gaps in American orchestras. By placing instruments in the hands of young children, particularly children of color, the initiative fosters early musical training and enhances their chances of success.
Across all programs offered, a resounding sense of confidence emerges as young people experience ICYOLA’s training and mentorship. Morgan recalls one student, a drum corps intern, whose confidence transformed over the summer. “She started out struggling with some interactions and even phone conversations,” Morgan explained. “But after working with us, engaging with our community, and interacting with our audience, she grew into a confident person. That growth happens when we give young people opportunities to succeed.”
Within ICYOLA’s nurturing environment, students find safety, support, and encouragement—key elements that build self-assurance and resilience. Through music education, they develop the courage to step forward, speak up, and lead.
