At Harmony Project, learning an instrument is far more than an after school activity. It is a powerful pathway for self discovery, personal growth, and connection. For Sergio, a seventeen-year-old guitarist at our Hollywood site, music has become a tool for bringing people together and giving back to his apartment complex.
Finding Inspiration in the Guitar
Sergio started at Harmony Project four years ago. Drawn to the expressive qualities of acoustic guitar, he found inspiration in indie instrumental bands whose approach to the instrument opened his eyes to what was possible.
"I was inspired by bands like Helvetia and Message to Bears," Sergio shares. "I loved how they really became almost one with their instrument, bringing such a beautiful sound and song from a guitar."
That desire to connect with his instrument quickly grew into a deep passion for the creative process itself. "What draws me to music is the amazing sounds that can be accomplished with various instruments, and how a musician can become almost one with their instrument to produce such beautiful music," he explains.
A Strong Foundation at Home
Sergio's dedication to his craft is grounded in a supportive family environment. His mother runs her own business from home, demonstrating an inspiring entrepreneurial work ethic. Meanwhile, his father serves as his primary educator and closest mentor, instilling values that shape how Sergio approaches both music and life.
"My father is my educator and is like my best friend," says Sergio. "He is always educating me and telling me the importance of respect and discipline, often pushing me beyond what I believe I can accomplish."
The Flores family lives in a senior apartment community, where Sergio occupies a unique role as the only young person in the complex. Having grown up alongside his neighbors, he views the residents as a “second family of grandmothers and grandfathers” who have cheered on his growth since he was a baby.
Cultivating Community Through Song
For Sergio, music is a bridge that connects generations. His neighbors frequently ask when he will perform for them, inspiring him to plan a special concert during their community event this upcoming spring.
"I use music to cultivate community among my neighbors," Sergio reflects. "I have a neighbor, Elizabeth, who loves to hear me play. She got very excited when I told her I was learning 'The Thrill Is Gone' by B.B. King, and she asked that I play that for her. That was a great bonding experience between us."
Why Donor Support Matters
Sergio's story illustrates how access to high quality, tuition free arts education equips young people to become leaders in their neighborhoods. By providing free instruments, instruction, and mentorship which offers safe spaces, Harmony Project empowers children across Los Angeles to realize their full potential.
When asked why supporters should invest in youth music programs, Sergio's answer is simple and profound.
"Even if you donate just a little bit, it can go a long way with helping Harmony Project afford gear and instruments," Sergio emphasizes. "It helps students find their place in music and find themselves, whether through the guitar, violin, or a cello. That helps a student find their community."
About Harmony Project:
Harmony Project is a nonprofit that provides high-quality music instruction and social support to children year-round at no cost throughout 51 community hubs in Los Angeles. As one of Los Angeles’ largest music education organizations, Harmony Project is dedicated exclusively to serving children from low-income families and under-resourced communities. Harmony Project envisions a world in which all students have equal access to opportunities to learn how to play music and the resources needed to thrive in college and beyond. Harmony Project’s holistic approach to student success has resulted in impressive outcomes with 98 percent of the graduating high school class accepted to a college or university during the 2025-2026 academic year.