Young Musicians Foundation

Young Musicians Foundation (YMF) was established in 1955 by pianist and educator Sylvia Kunin. She believed in music's potential to change lives and unite people, and held the strong conviction that access to music should be equitable for all. YMF continues Kunin's legacy and commitment to providing music education in the name of social justice.

Throughout the year, YMF provides free, weekly music instruction to thousands of learners of all ages. The organization partners with 26 schools and sites in the greater Los Angeles area, particularly in underserved communities that lack the infrastructure to maintain arts programming. Through classes in instrumental music, vocal music, and music technology, students gain exposure to educational opportunities and live performance events. Beyond these in-school and on-site programs, YMF operates the Community Music Academy at its facility in Cypress Park, a neighborhood in Los Angeles, which serves as a central space for community members to gather and learn. YMF also partners with Homeboy Industries to serve formerly gang-involved, recently incarcerated adults. These impressive programs offer youth and adults high-quality and authentic engagements with the transformative power of music.