29 July, 2024

On July 22, 2024 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session to 20 underserved child participants at the the Boys & Girls Club of Carson at their Bonita 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 some feedback received from Supervisor Briannda Escobedo who helped coordinate the Carson Boys & Girls Club sessions. 

To share some personal insight, as I was leaving the classroom one of the 5th grade boys followed me to the door with a tentative look on his face. He had been fully intrigued and engaged throughout the session. I praised him for what a good job he did. He looked up and asked earnestly “Um, I was wondering… can I get another harmonica for my little brother? He’s in a group home. We’re foster kids and they separated us”. Obviously this was a deeply painful experience in his young life and my heart ached for him. Gently, I said “Of course", and quickly handed him another harmonica and music sheet saying, “You’re such a good guy to be watching out for your little brother. How old is he?” He replied "He’s only eight. His name’s JJ.” I said, “I’m so proud of you. Not only for what you accomplished today, but for being such an awesome kid and devoted big brother." He smiled brightly at me, holding his harmonica and replied “Thanks. He is gonna love this.” I smiled an encouraging and hopeful smile back and said, "Teach JJ what I taught you today.” I sighed deeply to myself as I walked away. You never know the extraordinary challenges kids may face in their lives - or how much positive difference the hope and joy of learning to play music on a harmonica might bring them. 

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

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"It was was awesome! During the time that was donated from the Harmonikids program you could really see a shift in the members behaviors. The kids were joyous throughout the whole interaction. As they were following the steps that were given by Gary you can notice that from the beginning of starting to play the harmonica towards the end, they were more confident in themselves. They took notice on the fact that they were able to play it correctly, while being able to have fun.

This experience for them can instill a sense of autonomy within the lives of these members that unfortunately might struggle with having. Although we are a very diverse community here at BGC, not each kid shares the same opportunities. Receiving these musical gifts as well as the lesson can create a sense of hope for these kids and teach them to always grab a hold on opportunities.

We wanted to acknowledge this and share our appreciation towards you, Hohner and this program. Thank you for sharing the experience of music with us!" 

~ Supervisor Briannda Escobedo and the staff of the Boys & Girls Club of Carson