“Music is the social act of communication among people, a gesture of friendship, the strongest there is.”
Mission Statement
Yakima Music en Acción (YAMA) grows confident leaders throughout neighborhoods it serves by widening access to professional-level music learning, igniting collective pride, and empowering and unifying students and families.
At YAMA, every young musician can find a place to belong and grow.
Our orchestras are designed to meet students where they are, offering a progression of ensembles—Preludio, Chamber, Combo, and Philharmonia—that help each musician discover the right fit for their skills, goals, and passions. No matter the level, every ensemble provides opportunities to build musicianship, practice collaboration, and experience the joy of performing together.
Last season, the YAMA Orchestras consisted of over 100 3rd through 12th graders from 23 different schools in the Yakima School District. We are gratefrul to have Garfield Elementary School as our home base, where we rehearse four days a week.
2023–2024 Preludio Orchestra2018–2019 Preludio OrchestraFrom the very beginning in Preludio, students learn the foundations of orchestral playing, teamwork, and responsibility. As they advance into Chamber and Combo, musicians deepen their technical and expressive skills while stepping into new roles as section leaders, mentors, and creative collaborators. By the time students reach Philharmonia, they are prepared to take on the most challenging repertoire and lead their peers with confidence, artistry, and vision.
Leadership is woven into the fabric of every YAMA ensemble. Whether tuning a section, helping a new player feel welcome, or taking initiative in rehearsal, students at all levels develop the skills to guide and inspire others. Through this journey, YAMA musicians don’t just learn to play their instruments—they learn how to lead, listen, and lift up those around them, creating a community where music and leadership grow hand in hand.