10 April, 2025

On March 23, 2025 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session for children with emotional and behavioral challenges at the MIKID (Mentally Ill Kids In Distress) facility in Sierra Vista, AZ. All of the students became joyfully engaged when I performed for them and then each were delighted as they found a path to make music when I passed out harmonicas and gently taught them four songs. The youth’s self esteem and confidence soared as they quickly became successful and learned to accurately play all the songs. As Harmonikids programs have demonstrated, learning to play music on a harmonica can tenderly lead mentally distressed youth across daunting boundaries. Some of the inspirational benefits the youth received (including using their harmonicas as a “coping mechanism”) are described in the feedback received from MIKID director Miranda Hayden below. 

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

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Thank you so much for taking the time to teach our kiddos how to play the harmonica. It was great to see the excitement and attention from them! The kids are excited to follow you on social media and stated, "he is so cool" They shared with us after your session that they will be utilizing their harmonicas as a "coping mechanism" and "when they feel alone" . Your engagement and teaching were patient and positive to our kiddos. Music is so good for the soul and taking the time to teach them and provide the harmonicas is much appreciated! The parents were very appreciative that you allowed them to keep their harmonicas! We would love to have more kids be a part of this again next year! Thanks again for all you do!

~ Miranda Hayden BSW, BHT, Director of MIKID, Behavioral health facility in Sierra Vista, AZ