Education Through Music-Los Angeles (ETM-LA) celebrated its 20th anniversary on January 27, 2026, with a benefit gala at the Skirball Cultural Center. The evening honored legendary songwriter Diane Warren, Sonic Fuel Studios founders Christopher Lennertz and Tim Wynn, and music educator Ryan Gonzales. A surprise Champion Award was also presented to Carlos Santana and the Milagro Foundation. The event raised over $500,000 to support the non-profit’s mission of providing comprehensive music education to under-resourced schools. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has reached over 190,000 students and provided more than 155,000 music classes to enhance academic and creative development.
The gala featured a moving performance by the ETM-LA Student Choir Ensemble, who sang Warren’s Oscar-nominated song “Dear Me.” Visibly moved, Warren noted that having access to music teachers like those at ETM-LA might have changed her own experience as a student. The night also included memorial tributes to past honorees Gordon Goodwin and Arthur Hamilton, featuring a student performance of the classic “Cry Me a River.” Salvador Santana, who accepted the award for his father, emphasized that investing in youth through music is essential for a brighter future. The funds raised will continue to support the “Rhythm of the Night” by funding professional development and direct music instruction across Los Angeles.