Shared values are the fundamental beliefs, principles, and priorities collectively embraced by a group, and not just a few individuals or directors. Our staff uses these values as a compass to guide decision-making at all levels—from how we interact with students, how we build trust across our team, how we structure field trips, and even how we hire newcomers to join our team of rock stars.

Even though the YAMA orchestras are at the core of our program, we are so much more than just a music-making program!

Since picking up the bass at a rock band program in elementary school, Reid Whitecotton has been passionate about music and its effects. His musical experiences have taught him many lessons about how he can create a style of teaching that is holistic and supportive.

Earlier this spring, our Philharmonia and Combo orchestras participated in a pop-up concert at the Valley Mall on a special Yakima extravaganza day. We went from the Mall to Miner’s to Skateland. Trips like these are one of the unique perks of our program.

Ms. Perez's teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning is a two-way street in which teachers and students learn from each other. She values adaptability and continuously evolving to meet students’ needs.

What happens when young people participate in collaborative music-making?

This question is one that Yakima Music en Acción (colloquially called “YAMA”) aims to answer, every day when we’re in session. At YAMA, we use string music education as a vehicle for our mission. 

On Friday, March 20, a small group of Philharmonia students and YAMA staff put together a pop-up chamber music concert at Rooted Yakima Valley!

On March 26 and 27, teaching artists converged at YAMA for two days of hands-on professional development in a collaboration with the Teaching Artists Training Institute. We hosted facilitator Alan Wong, a lifelong Seattleite with over two decades of experience supporting youth, educators, and communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

There are ways that growth is visible and audible when a young musician is learning an instrument. There are also other layers of growth beyond what we can see and hear at YAMA performances. Students, staff, alumni, and parents share their reflections on what growth looks, feels, and sounds like at YAMA.