Metropolitan Youth Orchestras of Central Alabama (MYOCA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to making music instruction and ensemble playing available to all, thereby developing character and sense of community.

We offer opportunities tailored for the performance level and maturity of musicians ages 10 to 18 lessons on many instruments offered through our Scrollworks program to an evolving family of ensembles currently including a choir and youth orchestra.

Young people of diverse racial, social, cultural, and economic backgrounds are encouraged to explore and cultivate their musical talent and contribute to Alabama’s musical culture.

Our progressive music education programs are staffed by accomplished musicians with real-world experience. Students receive broad exposure to classical, jazz, world music and other genre. While lessons are offered during three terms (spring, summer & fall), youth musicians may audition for the ensembles at any time.

MYOCA was founded in 2007 to provide transformative experiences for youth musicians in socio-economically diverse music ensembles. Because so many children in the metro area have lost access to instrument instruction and thus can’t participate in orchestra, the Scrollworks program was begun in 2008 to give all children the opportunity to learn an instrument. Scrollworks currently teaches free music lessons to over 120 students from the inner city, suburbs and rural communities on Saturdays at Highlands UMC. We provide music books and loan instruments. In addition to lessons, students take music theory and music appreciation classes and are required to attend live music performances in the community.