TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments and culture of those with Hispanic roots, and southern Arizona is booming with cultural events to honor it.
13 News reporter Ariana Araiza has been diving into southern Arizona’s Hispanic culture, specifically the mariachi scene.
Throughout the Old Pueblo mariachi scene, schools are teaching children mariachi and Folklórico as a way to keep tradition alive.
Alfredo Valenzuela created Mariachi Las Aguilitas at Davis Bilingual Magnet School, the first youth mariachi program brought into U.S. classrooms.
Now, the after-school program is led by his son, Jaime Valenzuela, and meets four days a week, teaching the traditional music to children.
Other schools have created their own mariachi programs, such as a mariachi program at White Elementary created by Bill Mark or Mariachi Los Diablitos at Sunnyside High School started by Christopher Figueroa, an original Changuito and member of Mariachi Cobre.
These various programs at the elementary, middle school and highschool levels help carry tradition through generations.
Araiza joined 13 News’ Makayla Goos to talk about the leaders in this space and other ways southern Arizona is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.
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