09 August, 2019

 On June 28, 2019 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session at UNM Children’s Hospital in Albuquerque, NM that bought healing joy to child patients. It was a fun and wonderful event starting with an engaging harmonica concert and followed by fascinating history and quick-learn lessons. The kids, parents, and staff were amazed at the musical presentation, delighted to receive harmonicas, and overjoyed at how fast some learned to accurately play four songs. The session is best described by heartwarming note of thanks received from director Reina Baron and the facility staff below. 

~ Gary Allegretto, Founding Director of Harmonikids, www.harmonikids.org

###

Gary,

I just wanted to thank you for another wonderful visit! We all really enjoyed the stories you told and how you taught us about the harmonica and the different kinds throughout history. It is always amazing to watch you play!!! The best part, as always, was getting a harmonica and learning how to play it.  We appreciate that you always think of our patients and look forward to your next visit!

~ Reina Baron, Child Development Specialist 1, UNM Children’s Hospital Child Life

Gary,

UNMH Children's Hospital would like to thank you for all that you did for our patients. You were kind, patient, and truly treated the kids as kids, not as sick kids and as staff members we really appreciate that. We can tell the difference just from this morning to the end of the lesson how their spirits have lifted. Confidence shot through the roof and it was a joy to see all the kids enjoy something that they will most likely will never be able to experience again in a life time.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, not many volunteers come to do things for the patients and it really made a difference, they will now go into treatments with confidence and a lifted spirits. 

~ UNMH Children’s Hospital Staff