Fifteen-year-old Tyler is a fan of skateboarding, reading, and music – especially acoustic and electric guitar music. When wish granters Lorie and Diane with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Sacramento and Northeastern California asked Tyler for his one wish, he knew immediately that he wanted to meet legendary performer Carlos Santana and receive a guitar lesson from the master musician.

To enhance the wish, volunteers decided the musical teen needed a new electric guitar. Johnson Park Elementary School in Marysville, Calif., was ready to step up through its Kids For Wish Kids® program. The students worked many hours to hold a math-a-thon and raised more than $2,200. This money – combined with a generous discount from a local music store – bought Tyler a fantastic new guitar and equipment. All the ingredients were now in place for the upcoming “jam session.”

On the wish day, the young musician, his family, and a Make-A-Wish® representative visited Mr. Santana’s studio in northern California. According to a news story on Santana.com, the artist and his staff were ready: “When we heard of Tyler’s request, we were more than happy to help him fulfill the wish, ” the site noted.

Tyler and Carlos toured the studio together and then sat down to make some music. This was Tyler’s much-anticipated guitar lesson. They first played guitar together, and then Carlos switched to drums while his student played on. Wish granters noted the two joked and laughed. After their jam session, Tyler ate lunch with his new teacher and the office staff. Santana.com recounted the end of the day by writing, “Tyler left with a big smile and more Santana merchandise than he could carry. It was a very emotional experience for everyone involved.”

Feeling that emotion, Tyler’s mom commented, “It could not have been any more special. Carlos was so attentive, giving (a) one-on-one experience that will (forever) be a lasting and inspiring memory.”