16 May, 2025

On May 2, 2025 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session to 75 underserved 5th graders at a Title 1 school near Minden, Nevada All kids were thrilled to be entertained and then be gifted Hohner harmonicas on which I taught them to play four songs. But one little girl very politely raised her hand repeatedly to sweetly and enthusiastically express how much she appreciated me showing up to give them harmonicas and teach them. She even came up to me afterwards to repeat her heartfelt thanks.

Later the principal privately explained to me that she and her family struggled with living in extreme poverty and she has never gotten - nor would she ever receive - an opportunity like this otherwise.

It brought tears to my eyes. I thought about how lucky I was to have the musical opportunities I received as a child and the positive difference it made in my life. Even though I’ve provided many hundreds of sessions like this for decades, teaching children with profound challenges in their lives still always teaches me to be grateful for blessings and to never take anything for granted. It’s also a reminder of our sacred obligation to help one another, which only blesses our lives further.

The principal Pam Gilmartin’s note of thanks is below.

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

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Thank you, Gary for allowing our students to explore harmonica music. They would not have had this opportunity otherwise. Your assembly was organized and thorough for our 75 fifth graders. You were able to capture and hold their attention for 75 minutes while teaching them how to accurately play four songs. That is amazing. You are a very talented musician and we can appreciate your knowledge and innovation.

One student today commented on how lucky Jacks Valley is to be chosen and how she was honored to receive a harmonica. Many of our students would never be able to afford a harmonica and they are so lucky to leave school today with one in hand. I am sure they will all go home today to play for their families, as I know they learned a great deal.

Thank you again for your time and commitment. We value your optimism and willingness to present to our school.

Thank you from the Jacks Valley Community.

Sincerely,
Pam Gilmartin
Principal
Jacks Valley Elementary School