Barry J. Nidorf Hosts Inspiring Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles Drum Corps Winter Concert

SYLMAR, CA — The Barry J. Nidorf Secure Youth Treatment Facility (SYTF) proudly hosted the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) Drum Core Winter Concert on Saturday, celebrating the achievements of the program’s second cohort of young musicians currently housed at the facility.

After six months of intensive biweekly drumming sessions, the youth musicians performed in tuxedos provided by ICYOLA—each one gifted to the young men to keep and take home upon their return to the community. The gesture symbolizes dignity, pride, and a new beginning. Their dynamic performance, presented alongside ICYOLA brass musicians, reflected their growth, discipline, teamwork, and emerging artistry.

Parents, family members, and supporters joined Probation staff, county leaders, judges, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell in attending the uplifting event. The concert concluded with a shared catered meal, reinforcing unity and highlighting the powerful role that collaborative, rehabilitative programming plays in a young person’s development.

“This partnership reflects what rehabilitation looks like when we work together—arts, community, and Probation joining forces to give young people the tools they need to heal, grow, and succeed,” said Chief Guillermo Viera Rosa. “These young men have embraced discipline, creativity, and teamwork. This weekend’s performance reminds us of what is possible when we invest in their potential.”

This transformative program is made possible through a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors mandate, in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture, reflecting the County’s commitment to offering meaningful rehabilitative opportunities for youth.

“Last year, the Board of Supervisors passed my motion to expedite a partnership with the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) to provide programming for youth at Barry J. Juvenile Hall. It was a full-circle moment to attend this performance and see the ICYOLA Drum Corps graduates put on an amazing show, further uplifting what is possible when we invest in the skills and promise of the young people, we are responsible for,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.

“The work we do at Nidorf is among the most meaningful because we can take young men who may have never worn a suit or touched an instrument and guide them into discovering music, discipline, precision, and the pursuit of excellence,” said Charles Dickerson, Executive Director and Conductor of ICYOLA.

The Los Angeles County Probation Department remains committed to a behavior-based system rooted in dignity, opportunity, and personal growth. Programs like this demonstrate how structured support, positive relationships, and creative outlets can change lives and help young people build the skills they need for a brighter future.

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