Congrats Op Gig Veteran Graduates From G4V’s Cyber Chapter
GUITAR 4 VETS, CYBER CHAPTER
Congratulations to the Operation Gig Veterans that have recently graduated from the Guitar For Vets (G4V), Cyber Chapter Program. Last July, Orange County Music and Dance (OCMD) launched Operation Gig (Op Gig), a veteran outreach program focused on bringing the community together through music! Veterans were able to meet in weekly group classes where they practiced or learned new skills, gathered with new friends and fellow veterans, and nurtured their musical abilities.
vETERANS RECEIVE A BRAND NEW ACOUSTIC GUITAR
To further the veterans’ creativity, confidence, and musical skills, OCMD joined forces with nonprofit organization Guitar 4 Vets to enroll several Operation Gig participants into G4V’s Cyber Chapter. The Cyber Chapter “will allow Veterans to enroll in the G4V program free of charge and complete 11 weekly online private lessons that are individualized and designed to help students learn at their own pace. Upon completing our 11-week program, Veterans will receive a brand new acoustic guitar and all of the accessories needed to continue playing.”
Five Op Gig participants graduated from the G4V Cyber Chapter Program, including a husband and wife along with father and son, who took lessons together. OCMD has agreed to fund the brand new acoustic guitars rewarded to the Op Gig participants that have graduated from the Cyber Chapter Program, along with an additional 25 California-based musicians, not affiliated with Op Gig.
With community organizations like Guitar 4 Vets, veterans are able to nurture their musical capabilities, build confidence in their creativity, and foster community.
Visit Guitar 4 Vets website here! Be sure to also follow them on Instagram!
In June and July 2021, OC Music and Dance offered US military veterans a free 8-week music program to help them cope with the stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the program, two veteran bands were formed: these veteran musicians received coaching from professional musicians, performed at a public concert, and participated in a professional recording experience.