22 November, 2024

On Friday November 8, 2024 I provided a Hohner Sponsored Harmonikids session to 40 children at the Pinon Project facility in Cortez, CO. My session was was for their Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), a program for the mentorship and education of youth which provides a healthy safe-space in the economically challenged community of Cortez and the surrounding area. All students were fully focused and engaged throughout the session. The room was filled with excitement and enthusiasm. The kids giggled with joy and astonishment as I entertained them. Then each was thrilled as I handed them new Hohner harmonicas on which I gently taught them to accurately play four songs. They beamed with pride at their immediate success. It made a positive difference in the lives of these youth - joyfully boosting their confidence and self esteem. For many it was the first experience of learning to make music on a real musical instrument. Attached below is enthusiastic feedback received from program supervisor Ashleigh Jacket.

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

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"The Pinon Project's Friday Funday program had the privilege of hosting Gary Allegretto. Gary did an awesome job teaching our kids how to play their harmonica while keeping everyone entertained. It was impressive as our program's ages range from 5 to 12. Our staff was happy that our kids were allowed to experience the Harmonikids music program. Mr. Allegretto sure has a way with kids and I hope he continues to share his love of harmonica's with more kids near and far! The best part was hearing our participants practice on their very own harmonica's and the interest in music. We would like to thank the Hohner harmonica company for their kind donation. 

Playing an instrument is like having a superpower, it allows you to create beautiful sounds. Gary’s program made our kids feel like super heroes.”

~ Ashleigh Jacket, Program Supervisor, The Pinon Project Youth Empowerment Program