09 June, 2026

On May 11, 2026, I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session to 28 students with special needs at Delcastle Technical High School in Delaware. All the students were thrilled and became thoroughly engaged when they heard me play - and then each were delighted as they found a path to make music when I passed out harmonicas and gently taught them 4 songs. The youth’s self-esteem and confidence soared as they quickly became successful. As Harmonikids programs have proven for decades, learning to play music on a harmonica can lead youth across daunting boundaries. The inspirational, educational, and life benefits the youth received are best described in the feedback note received from teacher Thomas Gears below. 

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

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"Thank you so much for visiting Delcastle and teaching your Harmonikids program to our special needs students on May 11, 2026. Our students got so much out of your program. They loved your visit! Our students have been talking about it all week, some have come into school excited to tell me how they are practicing the harmonica and learning the songs in your songbook. As adults, we all can look back on high school and remember the special moments. I know for sure this will be one of those memories for these students many years from now. 

Please pass on our gratitude and sincere thanks to Hohner Harmonicas for their generous support. While your program was fun and educational, it also inspired our students. They came away with the feeling that they could do anything.

Please keep us in mind for future visits when you are able."

~ Thomas A. Gears, Learning Support Coach, Delcastle Technical High School