Reel Urban News Exclusive
By Michael Reel
The Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles will bring its music to the Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall on July 1 at 3 p.m. Committed to the artistic, personal and professional development of young musicians, the orchestra will perform its 10th Annual Season Finale at the venue located in the heart of Los Angeles.
Charles Dickerson, founder and conductor of the ICYOLA, shared his enthusiasm with Reel Urban News about the young instrumentalists who comprise the celebrated orchestra. “I have the most wonderful young people in the world that I have the privilege of working with,” said Dickerson. “I am proud of these young people and we are excited about putting on our 10th season finale.”
ICYOLA is a member of the League of American Orchestras and is a national leader in the effort to assure diversity in the arts. “Our orchestra is made up of a lot of first violins, a lot of second violins, a viola section, a cello section and a bass section,” explained Dickerson. “We began this orchestra in 2009. Nine African American young people came to me and asked if could we start this orchestra.
“Since that time, we’ve expanded beyond just serving the African American community. Most members of this orchestra are from communities of color.”
Through its music, the orchestra has addressed several high profile social issues that challenge black life in America including the murder of Trayvon Martin and the death of Michael Brown at the hands of law enforcement. During their 10th Annual Season Finale, ICYOLA will premier Dickerson’s new piece, “This Is Why We Kneel,” a song inspired by the protests of former and current NFL players.
“Colin Kaepernick, former quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, began a movement a couple of years ago,” said Dickerson. “He and other members of the National Football League, rather than standing for the National Anthem as the anthem was being played prior to NFL games, took a knee.”
“The blood of young black men flows in the streets of America at the hands of officers of the law, this is why we kneel.”
Michael Reel of Reel Urban News also spoke with several long-time members of the Youth Orchestra.
“It’s the best experience you can ever have,” said bassist Jaylen Stamps. “If it wasn’t for Mr. Dickerson I wouldn’t be in college. I give it all to Mr. Dickerson.”
As first chair violin, Thilan Tran recalled how he learned about the ICYOLA. “My parents heard about it online. I’ve been here for five years. I’m now concert master.”
Violinist Karah Innis says the early days with the orchestra were difficult. “I was in the 8th grade and just figuring out who I was as an instrumentalist. It was challenging but a lot of fun.”
