Acoustic Eidolon Inspires Borrego Springs Students Through Music
The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association (BSCCA) created an unforgettable experience for local students by bringing the
world-renowned duo Acoustic Eidolon to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Students from local schools, ages 5 to 11, were bused to the theater for a lively and interactive daytime session. Joe Scott and Hannah Alkire introduced them to the magic of live instruments and storytelling through music, filling the space with laughter, curiosity, and joy.
That evening, Acoustic Eidolon returned to the stage for a public concert at the Performing Arts Center. Open to BSCCA members and the public, tickets were also available at the box office, ensuring that as many as possible could experience their exceptional talent.
Bringing Music to Borrego Springs Kids
Thanks to
BSCCA's commitment to making music accessible to everyone, students from Borrego Springs schools were bused to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center for a special daytime performance. The theater was filled with children ages 5 to 11, their excitement palpable as they experienced the rare opportunity to see world-class musicians up close.
From the moment Joe and Hannah took the stage, the energy in the room was electric. The students clapped, sang along, and even danced in their seats to familiar tunes. One of the most memorable moments was a lively rendition of "Old McDonald," where Hannah made farm animal sounds with her cello, and the kids enthusiastically shouted out the animals and joined in singing.
The sound of mooing cows, meowing kittens, and even unicorns coming from the cello made for an interactive and delightful exchange between Hannah, Joe, and the audience, keeping the children giggling and engaged.
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Lessons Through Music: Anti-Bullying and More
Music has the power to teach life lessons, and Acoustic Eidolon made sure to share messages of kindness and empathy. One highlight of the performance was their anti-bullying song, "Don't Laugh at Me," which resonated deeply with the young audience. The children listened intently as Joe and Hannah used their music to encourage compassion and understanding.
The duo also took time to introduce their unique instruments. Joe’s double-neck guitar (guitjo), a custom creation combining the sounds of a guitar and banjo, left the kids fascinated. Hannah’s cello demonstrated an incredible range—from deep, soulful notes to playful, high-pitched melodies—captivating the young crowd with its versatility.
Q&A Session: Kids Ask the Best Questions
After the performance, students had the chance to ask Joe and Hannah their questions, sparking a lively and curious exchange. Their inquiries ranged from “How much does a guitar cost?” and “What are the words in the French song Hannah sang?” to the story behind the stickers covering Hannah’s cello case.
One moment that stood out was when a child asked Hannah if all the stickers on her cello case were from her travels. Smiling, Hannah said, "Yes!"
Even as students were called to line up and return to school, a small group stayed near the stage, eager to continue the conversation. Hannah knelt down to listen, taking time to answer their questions, while Joe stood nearby, answering with his own stories and insights. Together, they created a warm and engaging atmosphere that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Here’s a list of memorable comments from kids leaving the performance:
- "That was the best day ever!"
- "I want to bring my mom and grandma to hear this."
- "I want a three-neck guitar!"
- "I loved the sound the donkey made!"
- "I loved her voice."
- "They are so nice."
- "I want to be on that stage!"
These heartfelt reactions highlight the impact of the event on the students and their excitement about music and performance.
A Day of Music and Inspiration
Acoustic Eidolon's visit brought the community together through the power of music, inspiring students and captivating audiences. Thanks to BSCCA, the arts continue to enrich Borrego Springs.
Why Music Outreach Matters
In small, rural communities like Borrego Springs, exposure to live music can be transformative for children. These experiences spark creativity, foster a love for the arts, and inspire dreams that may have otherwise seemed out of reach.
The BSCCA’s outreach program demonstrates the powerful role that community organizations play in enriching the lives of young people. By funding the bus rides to the theater and making live music accessible to all, they are opening doors for future musicians, artists, and creators.
Get Involved in Supporting Music Education
Want to support programs like this? The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association relies on community contributions to bring world-class musicians to the desert. Donations, sponsorships, and ticket purchases help ensure that students continue to experience the magic of live music.
Visit
borregoconcerts.org to learn more about upcoming performances and how you can support music education in Borrego Springs.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 21, 2026
The 13th Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped January 18, 2026, with sold-out screenings, red carpet moments, awards, and strong community turnout. The 13th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped up January 18, 2026, closing five days of independent cinema, conversation, and community energy. Events were held throughout Borrego Springs, including free screenings at the Borrego Springs Library and ticketed block screenings and awards ceremonies at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Borrego Springs Film Institute, the festival continued its traditional, theater-first format that brings people together to watch films in shared spaces and talk about them afterward. Several screening blocks sold out during the week, reflecting strong local interest and visiting attendance. That connection was clear during the live-streamed red carpet. Host Brianna Pinto described one of the festival’s defining qualities by saying, “Filmmakers get to interact directly with the audience,” noting that Borrego Springs draws viewers who truly watch and engage with the films. Filmmakers echoed that experience in different ways. A King’s Curtain director Grannan Johnson said it was especially meaningful to hear audience members tell him, “Oh yes, I saw your film,” calling Borrego Springs “a fun place to be” with “really nice, great people.” Documentary filmmaker Mitch Yapko (Watching Walter) described a moment when a full theater reacted together, saying the shared gasp from the audience made it clear they were fully engaged. The setting itself also left an impression. Actress Laura Bolin (Rage, Rhonda) called the enthusiasm of Borrego Springs audiences “contagious” and encouraged visitors to explore the landscape, describing the area as a place to “just wander” and take in the desert views.
January 20, 2026
Event Overview The Doobie Doubles present The Ultimate Doobie Brothers Tribute, a live concert celebrating the music of the legendary rock band The Doobie Brothers . The performance recreates the sound, harmonies, and stage energy associated with decades of Doobie Brothers hits. The Band The Doobie Doubles is a professional tribute band known for faithfully performing classic Doobie Brothers material. Band members include Rick Erbe, Mike Leffler, Sheldon Bonada, Ray Bergstrom, Pete Hopkins, and Daniel Osterstock. Date, Time, and Venue Date: January 25, 2026 Time: 3:00 PM Venue: Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center Address: 590 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, California The Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center hosts a range of concerts, theater productions, and community performances throughout the season. Tickets Tickets: Available online Website: bspac.org Advance ticket purchase is recommended. Tribute concerts like this one offer audiences the opportunity to experience iconic music performed live in an intimate setting. With a focus on musical accuracy and stage presence, The Doobie Doubles deliver a performance designed for longtime fans and new listeners alike.
January 20, 2026
Event Overview The Denim & Diamonds Gala is a hoedown-style fundraising event celebrating three decades of community care by the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) . Proceeds from the gala support programs that strengthen the well-being of Borrego Valley residents, including healthcare, education, arts, environmental initiatives, and community development. Live Music and Entertainment Live music will be provided by Sean Oliu and the Coastline Cowboys. The program also includes cowboy poetry by Carey Peck, along with line dancing, auctions, and interactive activities throughout the afternoon. Date, Time, and Location Date: February 21, 2026 Time: 2:00–5:00 PM Location: The Center 590 Palm Canyon Drive Borrego Springs, California Tickets and Food Tickets: $100 per person Pre-order: give@bvefund.org Availability: Limited tickets available at the event Food will be served by Pablito’s, with a cash bar available.
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January 18, 2026
The 27th Annual Borrego Springs Golf Classic takes place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at de Anza Desert Country Club. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego , this annual event brings golfers, supporters, and community members together for a day of golf and giving in Borrego Springs. All proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the Borrego Springs Branch , supporting programs that help local youth succeed academically, build good character, and develop healthy lifestyles. The event features a scramble-style round of golf , on-course activities, auctions, and a hosted lunch. It’s designed to be both competitive and social, welcoming participants looking to enjoy a meaningful day on the course while supporting youth programs in the Borrego Valley. Sponsorship & Participation A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event and the Borrego Springs Branch. Sponsorships provide visibility throughout the tournament and help fund essential youth services. Event Details Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 Location: de Anza Desert Country Club 509 Catarina Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Registration and additional event details are available through the event website. Learn More About Borrego Springs
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January 16, 2026
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January 16, 2026
By Dennis Mammana
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