Warner Music Group Recognized for Community Contribution
This week, Warner Music Group (WMG) and singer, songwriter, and actor Josh Grobun were honored for their contributions to the Harmony program, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing musical education for underserved communities in New York.
WMG has partnered with the Harmony program since 2015, “helping children acquire critical life skills and build meaningful connections with peers,” according to the company’s statement on Thursday (April 3).
“The work of the Harmony Program expands access to musical education and harnesses the power of music to foster cooperation and community development,” said WMG president for global catalog Kevin Mountains, who received this honor at a formal event on Wednesday. Mountains is also a member of the Harmony Board of Directors.
The Importance of Artistic Expression
“For all of us, it is crucial to ensure that artistic expression continues to thrive freely, and that organizations like the Harmony program prosper to nurture the next generation of leaders, dreamers, and musicians. It is a significant honor for me to be associated with such an influential organization in our community,” he added.
“The work of the Harmony program is vital as it transforms the mindset of these young individuals,” Grobun Warner Records artist remarked on stage.
“Art education in a constantly changing and cynical world reminds us of the beauty in our similarities and, more importantly, the beauty in our differences. This recognition is incredibly special to me and symbolizes peace.”
“For all of us, it is important to guarantee that artistic expression continues to flourish freely, and that organizations such as the Harmony program…”
Kevin Mountains, Warner Music Group
Support from the Music Community
“Warner Music Group has been an invaluable partner to Harmony and its students for over ten years,” stated Anne Fitsgibron, founder and executive director of Harmony.
“In addition to financial support, they have provided our students with mentorship in their careers, internships in the industry, and unforgettable performances alongside world-class artists like Joyce DiDonato, Chris Thile, and Josh Grobun. This exemplifies the power of corporate philanthropy to inspire youth and enrich their broader communities.”
Alongside Grobun, the planning committee for the celebration included WMG CEO Robert Kinkead, CBS News journalist Adrian Diaz, SoundCloud CEO Elia Seton, opera singer Heather Buck, investor Evan Gogel, attorney and political manager Kirsten Kern, venture capitalist Dennis Lee, neurosurgeon Dr. Kalmon Post from Mount Sinai Hospital, and digital advertising leader Rick Song.
Additional sponsors included Kirsten and Peter Kern, Georgia and Don Gogel, Jenny and Roy Neterhofer, Elia Seton, James McKiver from SoundCloud, and Evan Gogel with Abra Metz-Dvorkin.
The Harmony program offers children free instruments, intensive musical training, orchestral instruction, and access to a variety of cultural experiences to enhance their self-confidence, creativity, social development, and academic success.
Its annual gala raises crucial funds, with past honorees including Christian McBride, Melissa Walker, Ben Jackson Walker, Arno Soussmann, Melissa Mugnos, and Shafran Chung.
Warner Music Group, Josh Groban honored at Harmony Program gala
