29 December, 2021

On December 14, 2021 I provided a Hohner-sponsored Harmonikids session to 24 special education high school students Delcastle Technical High School. All of the students became joyfully engaged to watch me perform for them and then each found a path to make music when I passed out harmonicas and gently taught them songs. They were thrilled as they quickly learned several songs including a couple holiday favorites. The youth’s self esteem and confidence soared as they became successful. They sat fascinated for over an hour happily playing and asking questions. As Harmonikids programs have demonstrated for decades, learning to play music on a harmonica can lead special needs youth across daunting boundaries and elevate their self-image at a crucial time in their development. The inspirational educational and life benefits the youth received are described in the note of thanks received from teacher Thomas Gears below.

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

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"It was a real pleasure to have you visit our school and teach your Harmonikids program on December 14. The special needs students I teach in the STEP program at Delcastle got so much out of your program. In addition to getting their very own harmonica, you have given them inspiration that they can do whatever they set their minds to, that is something that no one can ever take away. One of my students who hardly ever speaks and rarely smiles spoke about how much he enjoyed the program. He brings his harmonica to school each day and always plays a few bars for me. I have seen him smile more since your program than in the last 2 years. You have an extraordinary talent, not only at playing the harmonica but also touching the hearts and connecting with young people through your music and instruction."

~ Thomas A. Gears, Instructor, STEP Math & Social Studies