WHAT: Just in time for the holidays, the Los Angeles College of Music (LACM) and nonprofit Free Guitars 4 Kids (FG4K) will deliver joy — and guitars — to 200 Los Angeles-area students during “The Sound of What’s Possible,” presented by Sweetwater. Many of the students receiving guitars lost their homes and schools in this year’s devastating Altadena fires. For them, this day represents more than a gift — it’s a new beginning.
The event will feature a special performance and mentorship session with Grammy-winning guitarist Brent Paschke (Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, Snoop Dogg).
Newly confirmed: In addition to Paschke, several other notable guitarists — all with major touring and recording credits — will be onsite to support and mentor students. Special guests include:
- Marko DeSantis (LACM Faculty; Sugarcult, The Ataris, Nerf Herder)
- Rick Torres (LACM Faculty; English Beat, Supreme Beings of Leisure)
- Dan Kalisher (LACM Guest Speaker; Noah Cyrus, American Idol Band, Grace Potter, Fitz and the Tantrums)
Two large group guitar workshops will be led by:
- Jeff Miley, LACM Guitar Department Chair (Ron Miles, Rolling Stones’ Tim Ries, Yes’ Jon Anderson)
- Brad Rabuchin, LACM Guitar Faculty (Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Bonnie Raitt)
Students will receive hands-on experiences with top-tier musicians while unwrapping their first instruments — a holiday moment they will never forget.
FG4K’s mission is to make music accessible to all kids by pairing instruments with mentorship and community. LACM is extending that mission by offering a free week of tuition to three students for its acclaimed Summer at LACM program, which attracts young musicians from around the world. Sweetwater’s presenting sponsorship makes the day possible, continuing its national commitment to supporting music education and access.
Visuals & Story Opportunities
- Interviews with Paschke, FG4K, LACM faculty, and featured guest guitarists
- Hands-on music sessions, workshops and mentorship moments
- Behind-the-scenes look at LACM’s contemporary music programs
- Emotional, heartwarming moments with fire-affected students and educators
Why This Matters:
Earlier this year, the Eaton wildfires devastated much of the Altadena area, destroying some school campuses entirely. Many families lost their homes, and nearly all students and staff have been significantly impacted by the tragedy. Several students also lost their instruments in the fires. This event provides not just instruments, but hope, healing, and a tangible reminder that their community has not forgotten them.
When:
Saturday, December 6, 2025
12:30 -1:30PM: Kids open gift-wrapped guitars, performance by Brent Paschke
1:30 PM-4:00PM Mentorship sessions with LACM Faculty
Where:
Los Angeles College of Music (LACM)
300 S. Fair Oaks Avenue
