On behalf of 2018 Newport Folk Festival performer Lucius, Newport Festivals Foundation has donated $5,000 to the Harmony Project – a nonprofit that provides free music instruction and instruments to youth in underserved areas of LA.

The funds will be used to underwrite expenses for Harmony Project’s Leimert Park vocal/choir program – specifically the teacher’s salary and music supplies (purchasing music, music stands, etc). The choir program engages students in a collaborative choir setting, and incorporates spoken word, poetry, and songwriting into the curriculum.

Of the donation, Lucius has noted, “in our childhood communities, we experienced a lack of emphasis on creativity and arts – be it a lack of funding or just the attention and support necessary to nurture artistic development. On the flip side, we’ve also experienced the relief of knowing what it’s like to find a community who understands the importance of expression. It’s very clear that music education also promotes team building, communication, joy, focus etc.. Having somewhere to let yourself go, and to feel heard as an adolescent is of indescribable value. We are happy and honored to contribute to this mission.”