The Pleasanton Cultural Arts Council is proud to have partnered with Nancy and Gary Harrington to bring one of Pleasanton’s most distinctive public art installations to life. The Don Lewis Harmonic Symphony at Delucchi Park is a rare interactive sonic artwork honoring the life and legacy of musician, inventor, educator, and electronic music pioneer Don Lewis.
The installation was made possible through the extraordinary generosity and vision of Nancy and Gary Harrington, whose gifts through the Harrington Arts Partnership for You (H.A.P.P.Y.) Fund transformed an ambitious idea into a permanent civic landmark celebrating creativity, innovation, and the universal language of music.
Created by renowned sculptor Anton Standteiner and the Mountain Forge team, the Don Lewis Harmonic Symphony is much more than a sculpture. Anchored by the striking abstract Maestro sculpture and surrounded by six FreeNotes interactive musical instruments, the installation invites visitors of every age to create music together. It is a place where art becomes sound, imagination becomes participation, and community comes together.
Don Lewis left an extraordinary legacy in both music and technology. His invention of the Live Electronic Orchestra (LEO) anticipated many of today’s electronic instruments and digital music technologies. Equally important was his passion for inspiring young people. Through music programs in Pleasanton schools, he encouraged students to explore creativity and possibility. One of those students, fifth-grader Jeff Bordes, credits Don’s encouragement with changing the course of his life. Today, Jeff has become an acclaimed professional musician.
The Don Lewis Harmonic Symphony was designed to be experienced—not simply admired. Visitors are encouraged to pick up a mallet, explore the instruments, create their own music, and share the experience with family, friends, and neighbors. Every visitor becomes part of the artwork.
The Pleasanton Cultural Arts Council believes public art strengthens the fabric of our community by inspiring creativity, celebrating our history, and creating places where people gather and connect. We invite you to explore the stories behind Pleasanton’s public art collection and painted utility boxes throughout our website.
Then visit Delucchi Park, pick up a mallet, and become part of the Harmonic Symphony.