As one of the 11 LA Phil Affiliates, the Peninsula Committee Los Angeles Philharmonic (PCLAP) has helped strengthen the LA Phil’s mission since 1952—supporting world-class music-making, expanding youth access to the arts, and cultivating a community of passionate advocates for music.
Today, the Peninsula Committee continues to be a vibrant volunteer-driven organization, blending beloved traditions with imaginative new programs that welcome audiences of all ages.
Quick Facts
- Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula & South Bay
- Founded: 1952
- Focus: Fundraising, youth music education, community engagement, LA Phil volunteer service
- Meeting Cadence: Monthly general meetings; additional volunteer events and seasonal programs
- Signature Activities: Music in the Garden, Music Discovery, Speaker Series, Symphonies for Schools volunteering, fundraising salons, Concert Coaches
You see these young people arrive at Walt Disney Concert Hall, their eyes wide with excitement, stepping into a world they never imagined possible. That moment alone makes it all worth it.
Who We Are
The Peninsula Committee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit composed entirely of volunteers—enthusiasts, educators, professionals, and long-time music lovers who serve as ambassadors for the LA Phil. Their work bridges two values at the core of the Affiliates network:
- Supporting the LA Phil and YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles) through fundraising and volunteer service, and
- Fostering a deeper appreciation of music across their local communities.
Their geographic reach spans the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the broader South Bay region, making them one of the longest-running and most active Affiliates groups.
Our Impact in the Community: A Year in the Life of PCLAP
Music in the Garden
Every spring, thousands of visitors gather at the South Coast Botanic Garden for Music in the Garden, a full-day outdoor festival showcasing student musicians from local intermediate, high school, and college programs. Many of these ensembles perform using instruments and music supplies donated by the Peninsula Committee itself—a full-circle moment that reflects the committee’s investment in young artists.
Adventures with Instruments
Designed for children ages 2–5 and offered in partnership with the Palos Verdes Library District, this Saturday morning program combines story time, hands-on exploration, and one-on-one introductions to instruments with help from high school musicians. The committee also supports the library’s annual Summer Kick-Off celebration, bringing arts experiences to families across the region.
Supporting Local Seniors
Through the Concert Coaches program, the Peninsula Committee subsidizes transportation for seniors who face barriers to attending concerts. Thanks to the generous support of LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, more than 40 riders each season enjoy midday LA Phil concerts—often their only opportunity for live orchestral music.
Music Discovery
Originating as a lecture series for members, Music Discovery has grown into an annual community event exploring unusual instruments, new genres, and the intersection of music and culture. Past programs have featured everything from balalaika ensembles to saxophone orchestras to demonstrations of the hurdy-gurdy.
Speaker Series
The committee’s Speaker Series offers illuminating presentations on music, history, and the arts—including the 100-year history of the LA Phil, guest appearances by composers and conductors such as Daniel Slatkin, and talks by Affiliate members like Valentin Amburo Bravo, who brings composer introductions to life with warmth and insight.
Fundraising Events
Twice a year, the committee hosts major fundraising events—one in the fall and another in late spring—along with intimate Petit Salon gatherings featuring LA Phil musicians. These events support both the Philharmonic and local youth music programs.
Q&A with the Peninsula Committee
When does our committee meet?
The Peninsula Committee hosts monthly general meetings, with additional planning gatherings, volunteer opportunities, and seasonal events throughout the year.
What is our Committee’s focus?
PCLAP supports the LA Phil and YOLA through fundraising and volunteering while strengthening music education and arts engagement in South Bay communities.
How do we engage with the LA Phil?
Through programs like Music in the Garden, Adventures with Instruments, direct support for local school music programs, and hands-on volunteering with LA Phil Learning programs including Symphonies for Schools, Symphonies for Youth, and LA Soundscapes at The Ford.
How do you get involved?
The committee welcomes new volunteers of all ages and backgrounds—no musical training required. As one member notes, “You just need curiosity and a willingness to help.”
Learn more about getting involved, contact the LA Phil Affiliates team at volunteer@laphil.org or 213 972 3530.