Help Damian Tour Spain With US Guitar Orchestra

Damian Goggans is a young classical guitarist from Cleveland, Ohio. He began studying with the Cleveland Classical Guitar Society in 2016 and as of May 2021 he's graduated from the Cleveland School of the Arts high school, completed his musical studies in the Musical Pathway Fellowship at Cleveland Institute of Music, and is on his way to Oberlin Conservatory to study Classical Guitar Performance. After five years of playing, he has evolved into an amazing guitarist, composer, and assistant teacher, and now has the opportunity to perform in Spain.

Due to his work with the previously mentioned schools and programs, Damian has already accomplished many great things. He's been featured on CBS, MSNBC, FOX 8, and numerous other media outlets. He's received full scholarships to attended prestigious music summer camps at Interlochen and Brevard. And He's performed a composition he made for his mother at Severance Hall, with her in the audience.

To him, music means a lot more than just notes on a page. Since learning to play, Damian has used guitar to get through some very rough times in his home life. Music, guitar in particular, has helped Damian with the passing of his little brother, his family's instability, his mother being in and out of jail and helping to raise his little sister among many other obstacles that has come his way. No matter what the obstacle was, music allowed him an outlet and a safe form of expression. It has given him a sense of stability and self.

Looking back on Damian's musical journey it is hard to believe that he originally had no intentions on sticking to playing the guitar. Allowing himself to be open minded and following a suggestion from his art teacher, has lead Damian on a journey of a lifetime.

This brings us to why we're here...

Recently, Damian auditioned for an opportunity to tour Spain with the US Guitar Orchestra and got accepted! He would love to be able to do this tour but college cost are exhausting his funds.

Having the opportunity to attend the tour of Spain alongside the US Guitar Orchestra will be an amazing experience for Damian to continue on his journey of exploration and growth.

Whatever you may be able to give Damian will be appreciated. He promises to pay it forward in both his performances and by giving his future students similar opportunities.

Thank you! My mother LaTonya Goggans(Petty Washington) and I appreciate your support for this special trip!