A Historic Celebration in Los Angeles’ Disney Concert Hall: Angelica Hairston Joins ICYOLA for the Mahler Grooves Festival

Honored to Perform with ICYOLA for the Mahler Grooves Festival

There’s nothing quite like the power of orchestral music—the way it fills a space, moves through every fiber of your being, and tells a story without a single word. I recently had the honor of performing with the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) for Day 1 of the Mahler Grooves Festival, and it was nothing short of extraordinary.

Bringing Mahler to Life with ICYOLA

Rehearsing for this performance was intense and deeply rewarding. The room buzzed with focus as young musicians from across Los Angeles County came together to bring Mahler’s music to life. We prepared selections from some of his most breathtaking symphonies—the bright and powerful Third Symphony, the heavenly Fourth, and the Titan Symphony (No. 1), one of Mahler’s most astounding portrayals of life and death.

Performing these works was not only a musical challenge but also a celebration of Mahler’s legacy. The Mahlerthon, presented by the LA Philharmonic, carried forward a tradition established in the 1960s by the Gustav Mahler Society of California. To be part of this historic moment, alongside ICYOLA’s incredible musicians, was truly an honor. I was also honored to be joined on-stage by second harpist, Elizabeth Steiner; a Philadelphia-based harpist who’s accomplishments are numerous globally.

ICYOLA: Transforming Lives Through Music

Established in 2009, the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming young lives in Inner City Los Angeles through exceptional music education. ICYOLA introduces youth to outstanding music from various traditions and provides them with opportunities to perform in distinguished venues across the community.

More than just an orchestra, ICYOLA cultivates musical excellence while fostering essential life skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, self-reliance, confidence, discipline, and meaningful ambition. Their mission is to use musical expression as a vehicle for personal development, helping young musicians in Los Angeles realize their full musical and academic potential.

ICYOLA envisions a future where all inner-city youth have access to transformative music education, not only shaping them into talented musicians but also into confident, disciplined individuals ready for success in all areas of life. Their commitment to musical excellence and personal growth creates a foundation for lifelong achievement, community connection, and meaningful societal contribution.

The Harp’s Role in Mahler’s Orchestral Masterpieces

Mahler’s orchestration is full of nuance, and the harp plays a crucial role in adding warmth, texture, and celestial color to his works. Performing these pieces required deep concentration and artistry, and I was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an incredible musical experience. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of performing with orchestras such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Nashville Symphony Orchestra, Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, and Daytona Solisti Chamber Orchestra, and each time, I’m reminded of how powerful music can be in bringing people together.

A Life Dedicated to Music and Equity

Beyond performance, my passion for music extends into education and advocacy. As the founder of Challenge the Stats, I work to empower BIPOC artists and ensure that classical music spaces are more inclusive. I also serve as an Artistic Consultant for the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble, a nonprofit providing free harp instruction to over 80 students in Atlanta’s urban center.

Looking for a Harpist for Your Next Orchestral Performance?

Performing Mahler’s music with ICYOLA reminded me once again why I love orchestral playing—the depth, the collaboration, the storytelling. If you’re looking for a harpist for an orchestral performance, recording, or special event, I’d love to connect.

Visit www.angelicahairston.com or follow @angelharpist on Instagram to stay connected.

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