Música Desde Las Raíces

Our Story

Música Desde Las Raíces was started with a clear vision: to bring the transformative experience of music to children who might not otherwise have the opportunity.

Founded by Gabriel Olano, a senior at Christopher Columbus High School and Silver Knight nominee in the Music & Dance category, this initiative connects passionate guitarists with eager students to create an environment where kids can truly grow as musicians and connect with their cultures.

When we see a student's face light up as they play their first chord correctly, we're reminded why this matters so much. Learning to play an instrument is a lifelong gift—it's something you can turn to in both joyful and difficult moments.

Discover Our Mission

Our Mission & Vision

Mission

To provide children with the opportunity to connect with their cultural heritage through music education, fostering a sense of identity and pride in their roots.

We believe music is the perfect vehicle for learning different cultures, and especially your own. Many immigrant children are unable to visit their home countries for any number of reasons, and we want to ensure that they don’t lose touch with their cultures by teaching them to play the songs of their musical traditions.

Vision

To create a world where every child has access to music education that celebrates and preserves their cultural heritage, becoming cultural ambassadors who carry their music wherever they go.

Musicianship is a source of endless joy and human connection, and all kids should have the opportunity to play music in their lives, no matter their background.

Cultural Connection

Music isn't just sound—it's a gateway to understanding and celebrating our heritage.

Gabriel has spent countless hours listening to legends like Celia Cruz, Selena, Carlos Vives, and Los Prisioneros, but it wasn't until he started playing their songs on his guitar that he felt fully connected to his Colombian heritage.

That's when he realized: if he could give young kids the same opportunity, they too could become guardians of their own cultural heritage.

Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that every child's musical heritage remains alive. These kids aren't just learning chords; they're becoming cultural ambassadors, carrying their music wherever they go.

Our Impact

Making a difference one note at a time.

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Students Taught

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Student Age Range

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Raised to buy guitars

Joel's Story

Joel, 11, was so inspired by our classes that he asked for his own guitar for Christmas. He’s been practicing a lot and now even helps teach his fellow classmates.

Joel, 11 years old

Maya's Story

Maya, 11, already played drums and is now learning guitar with us with the hopes of starting a band and creating her own music.

Maya, 11 years old

Our Team

Gabriel Olano (Founder), Mauricio Coronel (Co-Founder), Luke Meinhardt (Electric Guitar Specialist), Julian Lorenzo (Acoustic Guitar Specialist), Kai Salcedo (Junior Leader)

Support Our Mission

Your donations help us bring music education to more children.

How Your Donations Help

Musical Instruments

100% of all donations

We purchase guitars, ukuleles, and percussion instruments for children who don't have access to them.

Our Impact So Far

How We've Used Your Support:

10 Guitars

Provided to students who couldn't afford their own instruments

Donate Now

Contact Us

Have questions or want to learn more? Reach out to us!

Contact Information

Email

gabriel.olano@outlook.com