The Santa Clarita Valley Youth Orchestra received $1,500 from the office of L.A. County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, which will provide support for the orchestra's instrumentation education program aimed at students eight years and older.

Research has shown how studying music and playing an instrument improves student performance in core academic classes.

Aside from being an important part of our culture, music also increases the likelihood that students will stay in school, which is why Angel says Antonovich's funding will go towards the orchestra's outreach program.

For more information on the orchestra visit www.scvyo.org.