Neighborhood Music School

Teacher Matthias Wagner works with piano student Jacob Joya-Lazo, 6, on “Jingle-Bells’ at the Neighborhood Music School in Boyle Heights.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Teacher Matthias Wagner makes notes on “Jingle Bells” in piano student Jacob Joya-Lazo’s music book.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Music instructor Mickey Fruchter, 74, left, who’s approaching his 50th anniversary with the Neighborhood Music School in Boyle Heights, works with student Myles Moreno, 10, on his violin as Myles’ mother, Jenifer Fleming, and younger brother Oliver Moreno, 6, wait.   (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Guitar teacher Toofun Golchin, 26, left, demonstrates fingering technique for student Alexander Schoenwald, 16, at the Neighborhood Music School in Boyle Heights. Alexander has been studying there for three years.   (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Genesis Martinez, 16, left, with fellow violin student Marlene Garcia, 14, gave up her quinceañera because she wanted her mother to buy her instruments.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)