August 27, 2025
The captivating classical music performances of up-and-coming Philadelphia organist Layla Joshi have captured the hearts of audiences.
At just 16 years old, Layla Joshi is emerging as a remarkable talent in the classical organ world. A junior at William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia, Layla balances a demanding academic schedule and varsity tennis with rigorous organ practice that highlights her passion and dedication.
Her unique journey into the instrument and commitment to performance have quickly set her apart in the music community.
Her unique journey into the instrument and commitment to performance have quickly set her apart in the music community.
Young Artist Spotlight
At a Glance
At 16, Layla Joshi is making waves in the classical organ world with her passion, dedication, and commitment to music education.
- Layla Joshi, a 16-year-old organist, quickly gained recognition in the classical music community through her performances and participation in cultural exchange programs.
- She founded Transforming Youth Music Education (TYME) to provide music instruction to underserved youth in Philadelphia, demonstrating her dedication to empowering young musicians.
- Despite her young age, Layla balances rigorous practice and performances with school and sports, earning prestigious awards and inspiring others to explore the organ.
A journey of passion and performance
Layla’s introduction to the organ came during the COVID-19 pandemic when she and her brother asked their church choir director if they could try playing piano pieces on the church organ. This first experience quickly transformed her initial awe of the imposing instrument into genuine enthusiasm.
Since beginning formal lessons in 2020 with instructor Joel Krott, she performed in Reykjavik, Iceland, through a cultural exchange program organized by Temple Music Prep’s Center for Gifted Young Musicians Youth Chamber Orchestra. She is also active in prestigious music organizations such as the Organ Historical Society and the American Guild of Organists.
She manages to balance frequent practice sessions with schoolwork and sports, often traveling to local churches to access instruments despite the absence of an organ at home. Her dedication earned her the Provost’s Fine Arts Award in 2024 at the Interlochen Summer Organ Camp, a testament to her outstanding skill and commitment.
Since beginning formal lessons in 2020 with instructor Joel Krott, she performed in Reykjavik, Iceland, through a cultural exchange program organized by Temple Music Prep’s Center for Gifted Young Musicians Youth Chamber Orchestra. She is also active in prestigious music organizations such as the Organ Historical Society and the American Guild of Organists.
She manages to balance frequent practice sessions with schoolwork and sports, often traveling to local churches to access instruments despite the absence of an organ at home. Her dedication earned her the Provost’s Fine Arts Award in 2024 at the Interlochen Summer Organ Camp, a testament to her outstanding skill and commitment.
I was very surprised by the diversity of sounds that the organ could make. When I first started playing, I struggled with registration because I didn't know which sounds would fit with certain pieces, because there were so many options.
Empowering through music and hope
Beyond her performances, Layla is deeply passionate about expanding access to music education. She founded the nonprofit Transforming Youth Music Education (TYME) to collaborate with local arts groups and bring music instruction to underserved youth in Philadelphia.
Through her blog, _The Sound Effect_, she shares insightful reflections on music from various global and historical perspectives.
Although she does not plan to become a professional organist, Layla hopes to continue playing throughout college and beyond. Her dedication and advocacy serve as an inspiration to young musicians, emphasizing the organ’s enduring legacy and encouraging others to explore its complex, timeless beauty.
Through her blog, _The Sound Effect_, she shares insightful reflections on music from various global and historical perspectives.
Although she does not plan to become a professional organist, Layla hopes to continue playing throughout college and beyond. Her dedication and advocacy serve as an inspiration to young musicians, emphasizing the organ’s enduring legacy and encouraging others to explore its complex, timeless beauty.