16 July, 2024

On July 10, 2024 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session to 24 underserved child participants at the the Boys & Girls Club of Carson at their 186th Street Elementary summer program. 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 a note of thanks and feedback from Youth Developmental Professional Salvatore Molina.

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

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"I am the Youth Development Professional who supervised the members that Mr. Allegretto taught. On behalf of the members and staff at 186th Street Elementary, we want to give a huge thank you to Gary’s Harmonikids program and Hohner for their sponsorship. His lesson was very informative and provided some history on the harmonica. I made a mental note and personally commended Gary when he brought up the fact that much of our music that we listen to today was inspired by African culture. He did a great job in engaging the youth and was very kind towards them. It was a privilege to have Gary provide his program and I believe that the work he does is great for the community that we serve." 

~ Salvatore Molina, Youth Development Professional, Boy’s & Girls Club of Carson

*Images used with permission from Boys & Girls Club of Carson website