For over two years, a mother in Anaheim, California, searched for a mentor of color for her son, Giovanni, who is now 11 and passionate about playing the violin. She found a space at a local church, New Hope Presbyterian Church, a multiethnic congregation led by a Black female pastor. In April, the church started a string orchestra to welcome students, including those who may have difficulty accessing and affording music programs. The orchestra, located in affluent Orange County, has about 18 members aged 9 to 20, playing violin, viola, bass, and cello. The program is free and open to all students without auditions.
The orchestra is inspired by the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, founded by renowned conductor Charles Dickerson in 2009. The church's orchestra is powered by mentors who reflect the diversity of the young musicians they guide. This representation is empowering for students, helping them feel supported and connected to the music they play.
