The Spirit of the Desert Foundation, a nonprofit organization, was founded in 2019 by musician, songwriter, and recording artist Johnny Meza and his wife, Tracey. Dedicated to fostering the arts, the foundation provides ukuleles, recorders, and professional music instruction to elementary students in the Desert Sands Unified School District. To date, the foundation has helped over 450 students, giving them the opportunity to learn and appreciate music from an early age.
A Mission to Inspire Through Music
The mission of the Spirit of the Desert Foundation is to promote the arts by providing musical instruments, professional instruction, and scholarships for college-bound music majors. Beyond working with young students, the foundation’s impact extends to the senior community as well. The musicians on the board actively perform at assisted living facilities, bringing the joy of live music to senior residents.
Upcoming Fundraisers: A Night of Music and Nostalgia
To continue supporting music education and fund scholarships for high school graduates, the foundation has planned two exciting fundraising events at BG Plaza, 73600 Alexandra Drive, Palm Desert.
February 17 – Rock Around the Clock with Elvis Tribute
From 6 PM to 9 PM, attendees will be transported back to the 1950s with a Rock Around the Clock event featuring Elvis tribute artist Rob Hund.
- The evening kicks off with Guitarist Rockin Vance Jorgensen, an inductee of the 2022 Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, performing live in the lobby.
- Inside the main venue, DJ Ronnie Felix, “The Ronz” will spin the best ’50s hits, recreating the energy of the golden era of rock and roll.
- Attendees can enter a raffle and participate in a best costume contest to win prizes.
- At 7 PM, “Elvis” enters the building, and the night continues with a rockin’ and rollin’ performance, celebrating the legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.
Tickets: purplepass.com/lovemetender
March 31 – A Tribute to Rod Stewart
The second fundraising event, also at BG Plaza from 6 PM to 9 PM, will be a spectacular tribute to Rod Stewart, featuring tribute artist Rg Stewart.
- Attendees will enjoy performances of Rod Stewart’s biggest hits, including Maggie May, Infatuation, Hot Legs, and many more.
- This night promises to be an unforgettable celebration of classic rock and the timeless music of Rod Stewart.
Tickets: purplepass.com/hotlegs
Supporting the Next Generation of Musicians
In June, the foundation will announce and award scholarships to deserving high school graduates pursuing music in college. A special event will be held to honor the recipients, with details to be announced soon.
For more information or to support the foundation, contact Executive Director Johnny Meza at (442) 677-9229.
By attending these fundraisers or making a donation, you can help keep music alive for young students and aspiring musicians while enjoying a night of unforgettable entertainment!
