VICTORIA MONÉT JOINS SONY MUSIC GROUP’S BEYOND THE INSTRUMENT INITIATIVE TO CELEBRATE THE REBUILDING OF MUSIC EDUCATION IN ALTADENA
Held One Year After the LA Wildfires, The Event Underscores SMG’s Ongoing Commitment to Rebuilding and Strengthening Music Programs for Students
Sony Music Group hosted a special event at Eliot Arts Magnet School celebrating the milestone progress made in rebuilding its music education program following the devastating 2025 Altadena/LA wildfires. GRAMMY Award–winning artist Victoria Monét joined the students for a Q&A conversation and community gathering to recognize their resilience and the revitalization of the arts across the campus.
This year marks the five‑year anniversary of Sony Music’s global Beyond the Instrument initiative, dedicated to expanding equitable access to music education and modern music technology. In the wake of the wildfires—which destroyed the full music programs at Eliot Arts Magnet and Altadena Arts Magnet—Sony Music adopted both schools with a commitment to rebuilding their music departments from the ground up. In just one year, Sony Music fully replaced all instruments, equipment, and restoring access to each school’s music program for more than 1,000 students.
As part of this year’s celebration, Sony companies joined together to provide additional support to the campus community including Sony Electronics speakers for classrooms and Sony headphones for all students.
“I’m honored to celebrate these students and everything they’ve overcome this year,” said Monet. “Music has the power to rebuild, to uplift, and to create new possibilities — and seeing that come to life here at Eliot Arts Magnet is truly inspiring. I encourage more people to be vocal and support their local communities.”
Of the event, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President, Executive Vice President, Global Philanthropy, Social Impact and Environment said, “Supporting young people through music is central to who we are. The students at Eliot and Altadena Arts Magnets have shown extraordinary resilience, and we are proud to stand with them as partners. Beyond the Instrument reflects our long‑term commitment to expanding access to music education and ensuring students have the tools they need to thrive.”
Sony Music Group’s Beyond the Instrument initiative continues to expand access to high‑quality music education around the world. Since its launch, the program has equipped young people across California, Tennessee, Florida, Nevada, London, Toronto, and Panama with cutting‑edge music technology, hands‑on learning experiences, and mentorship from artists and industry professionals. Contributors to the program include Cat Burns, Noah Cyrus, Sigala, DIXSON, Theron Thomas, Schak, Aqyila, and Gloria Estefan, each helping to inspire the next generation of music creators.