Orange County church offers free, no audition orchestra open to all children
ANAHEIM, Calif. - The sounds of classical music fill the room, but this is no ordinary orchestra. At New Hope Presbyterian Church in Orange County, a groundbreaking program is creating opportunities for children to learn and grow through music.
"We’re building a village here that doesn’t get closed off — it’s open to any child who desires to play an instrument and wants to be mentored," said Rev. Chineta Goodjoin, pastor at New Hope Presbyterian Church.
The orchestra is unique in its accessibility: there’s no cost and no audition process. It provides a safe space for children who may not otherwise have access to string instruments or formal music training.
"They’re learning about their own culture through the music," said Goodjoin. "They get music from Black composers, Hispanic composers — people they’ve probably never heard of — alongside pieces from Bach all the way to Beyoncé."
For parents like Ebonie Vazquez, the program has been life-changing. Her 11-year-old son Giovanni nearly quit the violin before discovering the orchestra.
"For the last year and a half, I’ve been searching for an environment that is supportive, nurturing, and focused on mentorship," Vazquez said, noting that there are no orchestras like it in Orange County. She loves that the program provides cultural sensitivity, inclusion, and music that’s relevant.
The orchestra goes beyond music. Members gain valuable lessons in collaboration, self-expression, and cultural pride.
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"Access, opportunity, belonging, and well-being are our four pillars of equity," Goodjoin explained, adding that it’s important to start teaching kids early.
Young musicians like Lindee, a third-grader, say the program fulfills a dream.
"I’ve always wanted to play the violin, so this makes me really happy," Lindee said.
High school sophomore Nyla Goodjoin appreciates the collaborative aspect.
"The coolest part is hearing the music come together, no matter your skill level," she said.
For orchestra coach and music director Reggie Goodjoin, the joy of teaching is seeing students thrive.
"When they learn a new scale or master a piece, it’s like a flower opening up," he said. He reminds them to reflect on where they started and how far they’ve come.
The orchestra’s mentors aim to instill a passion for music that lasts a lifetime.
"It gives me chills to see them accomplishing so much," said Rev. Goodjoin. "The teachers and mentors are right beside them, saying, ‘I’m not giving up on you, so you can’t give up on yourself. We’re in this together.’"
For these children, the orchestra is more than just music—it’s a source of inspiration, belonging, and possibility.
The orchestra’s first performance ‘Jazzy Christmas’ will be at 5:30pm on Sunday, December 15 at the Kennedy Performing Arts Center in La Palma. For tickets and more information tap or click here.