Every arts organization went into the 2021–2022 season uncertain. But with a full year of performances back on the books, companies might finally be feeling that they can plan ahead again. Certainly, Los Angeles musicians can rest a little easier now, following last month’s announcement from the LA County Department of Arts and Culture. The local agency’s Organizational Grant Program (OGP) provides support on a two-year basis, and more than $4.5 million will go to the latest round of awardees.
Among the recipients are a handful of big ensembles like the LA Phil, whose grant will underwrite various educational projects, including its flagship Youth Orchestra Los Angeles. Large organizations are the exception when it comes to OGP funding, however. The majority of grantees — over 80 percent — operate on budgets of less than $1 million a year.
That means more music-making from performers on a unique mission. Adventurous concert series, from the thorough programming at Jacaranda in Santa Monica to the contemporary keyboard recitals presented by Piano Spheres, are getting support for future seasons. Choirs with a particular passion are finding backing, be it the annual concerts for peace the Long Beach Camerata Singers prepare or the feminist angle of Vox Femina LA. Even the area’s understated early-music scene is acknowledged, with Tesserae Baroque and the Renaissance specialists at Jouyssance slated to receive grants, too.
And music is just a small part of OGP’s broader reach. In total, 37 instrumental, choral, and opera companies are listed among 277 grantees countywide. Find the full list of recipients on the Department of Arts and Culture website.
