Education Through Music–Los Angeles Celebrated 20 Years of Impact with Community Fundraising Event

Education Through Music–Los Angeles (ETM-LA) brought together supporters, educators, artists, and community members for an evening of celebration, connection, and purpose in support of music education for Los Angeles youth. The event honored the power of music to transform lives while raising critical funds for music programs in under-resourced public schools across the city.

The celebration took place on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the Skirball Cultural Center’s Herscher Hall. The evening began with a cocktail reception and auction, followed by dinner and a special program that highlighted ETM-LA’s mission and collective impact. Longtime champions and new supporters alike gathered to celebrate the organization’s work and shared commitment to expanding access to music education.

As ETM-LA marked its 20th anniversary, the organization shared that it would reach 42 schools and approximately 18,000 students, reaffirming its dedication to equity and access to music as an essential part of a well-rounded education. The program spotlighted the individuals, educators, and artists whose contributions through music have shaped lives and strengthened communities over the past two decades.

The evening honored an inspiring group of Shining Star Honorees, including Diane Warren, GRAMMY-, Emmy-, and Golden Globe–winning songwriter; Sonic Fuel Studios co-founders and composers Christopher Lennertz and Tim Wynn and Ryan Gonzales, music director for the Monroe Community of Schools. The evening also featured special appearances by Nia Vardalos, actor, writer, and producer (My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Connie and Carla, Tiny Beautiful Things); Sofia Carson, actor, singer, and producer (Purple Hearts, Carry-On, The Life List); and Anthony White, jazz artist, musical director, educator, and coordinator for Music & Entertainment Education.

ETM-LA students, alumni, and faculty were celebrated throughout the evening, with special performances by the Monroe High School Jazz Combo, alongside guest artists and presenters who underscored the importance of music education in young lives.

The gala was supported by an esteemed Honorary Chair Committee, featuring Christophe Beck, Sherri Chung, John Debney, Michael Giacchino, Randy Jackson, Julianne Jordan, Mike Knobloch, Rickey Minor, Julia Michels, Blake Neely, Lionel Richie, Randy Spendlove, Nia Vardalos, Paul Williams, and Renée Zellweger. The event was co-chaired by Lola Debney and Sharon Farber, whose leadership and dedication helped make the evening a success.

More than a fundraiser, the event served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together in support of music education. Those who were unable to attend were encouraged to continue supporting ETM-LA’s mission through donations at https://e.givesmart.com/events/KjE/.

Through shared stories, live performances, and collective generosity, Education Through Music–Los Angeles reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring every student has access to music, creativity, and opportunity.