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DannyLux alongside Sussman Middle School band students. (Photo Credit: JC Olivera/Getty Images for the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation.

Sussman Middle School in Downey received a donation of musical instruments during the Latin Grammy In The Schools event, hosted by the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation and others in partnership with 22-year-old Mexican-American singer DannyLux.

The school was selected because of its band program, its dedicated music educator, and students’ commitment to music. Across the Downey Unified School District, music education starts in the earliest grades, giving students the chance to discover and build their musical skills all the way through high school.

The donated instruments will not only increase student participation but also lower financial barriers for families. The new instruments will be utilized during instructional classes, rehearsals and live performances.

“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Simi Foundation, Save The Music Foundation, and the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation for helping us strengthen that pathway at Sussman Middle School,” said José Rodríguez, Downey Unified’s School Board President. “These instruments will expand access, remove barriers, and give more students the opportunity to develop their talents and experience the lasting impact of music education.”

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Sussman Middle School students are seen during Latin GRAMMY In The Schools event. (Photo by JC Olivera/Getty Images for The Latin Recording Academy)

Latin Grammy In The Schools is an educational program that inspires and encourages students ages five to 18 to pursue careers in the music industry. The program also connects music students with professionals in the Latin music industry to share their personal stories and experiences about the efforts it takes to overcome career obstacles.

During the event, the Sussman Middle School student band performed, and DannyLux participated in a Q&A session before treating students to live performances of two of his hit songs, “Corazón Frío” and “Jugaste y Sufrí.”

“Music has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember, so being able to share that with these students is really special to me,” said DannyLux. “I hope they leave today feeling inspired to keep creating, keep learning, and most importantly, to believe in where their love for music can take them.”

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