LOS ANGELES — It’s been nearly 40 years since he was killed, but John Lennon continues to be remembered for both his music, and his pro peace advocacy.

The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus, which is visiting Los Angeles for Grammy week, in partnership with the Grammy Music Education Coalition, is giving students a chance to have access to music resources.

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In the spirit of the late Beatle's legacy of generosity, students are trained for free by mentors established in the industry. The co-founder, Brian Rothschild, says inspiring younger creators is exactly why the bus was established. 

“We make sure that the industry and professionals understand how important it is to support the next generation of musicians and creators,” he explained.

The bus is decked out with all the latest sound gear, donated by music companies like Genelec and Yamaha. 

It also pays homage to the “Imagine Peace” John Lennon memorial, located in Iceland.

Rothschild hopes Lennon’s spirit of activism will inspire students to look to music over violence.

“To take his celebrity and turn it towards peace, and activism and social justice. And have people start thinking about things in a different way, in a disruptive way,” he said.

Jonathan, a student from Belmont High School who participated in the bus experience, says music has kept his emotions balanced during tough times.

“It has helped me with expressing, I guess you could say, sometimes my feelings. Cause sometimes music can go anywhere, and like with my lyrics, I’ll probably just write down some things, how I’m feeling. And to cheer me up,” Jonathan said.

Mentors like funk musician Bootsy Collins have spent time on the bus, giving tips to young artists.

Superintendent Austin Beutner also stopped by the bus, exploring a potential future partnership with LAUSD.

“There’s so many parts of John’s life that are very relevant today. And you know, sadly, the fact that he was killed by a gun is one of the things that is still very much a part of students' lives,” Rothschild noted.

By supporting students from a young age, the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus hopes to help the next generation of students “give peace a chance.”