YMS – Youth Music Service & Leadership Program
Donate Your Talent. Develop Your Leadership. Serve Your Community.
The YMS (Youth Music Service) & Leadership Program is an academic-year music service and youth leadership program designed for young musicians who want to use their musical talents to serve others while developing as mentors and community-minded young leaders.
Building upon LAYP’s original Donate-Your-Talent Project, the program provides selected students with opportunities to combine music, mentorship, community service, and leadership through meaningful community engagement.
The program emphasizes service leadership—learning to lead by helping, mentoring, teaching, and contributing to the community through music.
Program Opportunities
Depending on placement, student readiness, and program needs, participants may be involved in:
- Music mentoring and tutoring
- Small-group and ensemble support
- Community music service
- Educational outreach
- Student-led service projects
- Special community events and performances
- Leadership development through mentorship and service
Participants who demonstrate exceptional responsibility, commitment, and leadership may be considered for additional service leadership roles within the program.
Who May Apply?
Priority is given to LAYP high school students who demonstrate appropriate musical preparation, responsibility, maturity, and a genuine interest in serving others.
Qualified middle school students may also be considered for selected opportunities.
Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance or placement. Participation, assignments, and placement are subject to LAYP approval, student readiness, and program needs.
Service & Leadership
Participants may earn verified community service hours through approved LAYP service activities while developing practical experience in mentorship, responsibility, communication, and service leadership.
LAYP will document and verify service hours completed through approved program activities. Acceptance of these hours toward school or other institutional service requirements is determined by the receiving institution.
Service opportunities and the number of available service hours may vary depending on program needs, assignments, scheduling, and actual student participation.
The YMS Program is designed not simply to accumulate service hours, but to help young musicians learn how to use their musical abilities responsibly in service to others.
Recognition
Students who successfully participate in the program and fulfill applicable requirements may receive:
- Verified Service Records
- Certificate of Music Leadership & Community Service
- Service and Leadership Recognition
- Advanced Service Leadership Opportunities
Recognition is based on actual participation, completed service, demonstrated responsibility, and fulfillment of applicable program requirements.
Interested in Joining?
Students and families interested in the program are invited to apply.
Detailed information regarding participation requirements, service opportunities, assignments, scheduling, program fees, and guidelines will be provided to applicants and accepted participants.
Apply
Click here to apply for the 2026–27 Youth Music Service & Leadership Program.
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026
Questions?
Please contact the LAYP Team for additional program information.
Donate Your Talent. Develop Your Leadership. Serve Your Community.