For the past 3 years, Art of Élan has presented Young Artists in Harmony, an apprenticeship program for young music students at A Reason to Survive (ARTS) in National City. These young musicians are mentored by Art of Élan musicians and their original work is presented at a free public concert at the end of the residency each December.
On September 15th, Art of Élan and A Reason to Survive (ARTS) present a "Young Artists in Harmony Artist Spotlight" featuring Diego Rodriguez and the original compositions he has created over the last several years. As a 3-year participant in "Young Artists in Harmony," Diego, now 23, was able to create a portfolio of musical compositions that will be featured at this one-night-only special event at the Barrio Logan gallery Bread and Salt. This collaborative concert features musicians from Art of Élan as well as musicians from A Reason to Survive (ARTS), with proceeds supporting the 2017 Young Artists in Harmony program.
Rodriguez was both a student and instructor at A Reason to Survive (ARTS) from 2011-2016 and was part of the annual Young Artists in Harmony program from 2014 to 2016. When he's not writing compositions, he's busy attending the San Diego Mesa College music program or playing with his indie rock band Sweet Myths. He lives in El Cajon.