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Carrying the torch

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For many people, mariachi is a job, a form of entertainment, or a reminder of past times. But to many students participating in the Kern County Youth Mariachi Foundation, mariachi is also a cultural connection they might not get elsewhere.
“I have gained a lot of things from the foundation. I am a lot more in tune with my culture,” said Ariana Quiñonez, a violin player. “Playing mariachi music gave me insight into my culture. I have always been close to my grandparents and playing mariachi music is something they can understand and that can connect me to them.”
Eighteen-year-old Quiñonez said that being involved with the mariachi group has given her a better appreciation for where her family came from.
However, this cultural connection is feeling the strain of the current failing economy.
“We are going through hard times because of the economy,” said Mauro Laris, music director. “Donations have been reduced a lot. It’s a tough economy.”
In an attempt to raise funds to help support the nonprofit foundation, a summer concert featuring the Mariachi Juvenil de Aztlán is being held Sunday, Aug. 16 at 5838 Round Up Way. The event will feature a deep-pit barbecue dinner and a night of mariachi music from 6 to 8 p.m. The foundation is asking for a $15 donation for adults and $10 donation for children attending the event. Tickets can be purchased from KCYMF students or by calling 871-1164.
According to Laris, those attending the concert will see the kids play different styles of mariachi music.
“It’s going to be fun,” Laris said. “There are other things that are going to happen, but the main focus is the kids playing traditional mariachi music.”
Lupe Quiñonez, KCYMF Parent Representative, said the fundraiser is extremely important and all proceeds will go to the foundation to help students purchase uniforms and instruments and for scholarships for graduating high school seniors.
“We are an important organization that helps youth develop their talents and self-esteem, and in doing this they are maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” Quiñonez said. “We also help youth develop a respect for others, including their family unit and their community.”
Quiñonez mentioned the foundation helps children develop relationships with professional musicians and community leaders.
The organization definitely helped 18-year-old Elia Robles get involved with mariachi music.
“I have always loved mariachi music, but didn’t have enough experience to join my church group,” Robles said.
Robles said that besides looking good on college applications participating in the mariachi group has made her more well-rounded.
“It’s so much fun. The people are great and it’s just this bond you rarely find anywhere else,” she said.
“As far as cultural experiences, it’s always cultural,” Quiñonez said. “Our students are always curious as to the meaning of the songs and then there’s the language acquisition.”
Quiñonez said only half of the participating students know Spanish and the rest are acquiring the language as they learn new songs.
The youth mariachi has performed at many community events such as health fairs, hospitals, trade shows, menudo cook-offs, schools and fundraisers.
“We will recruit in August, but we always accept new students,” Quiñonez said.

Students interested in joining the youth mariachi or anyone interested in becoming involved with the foundation, attending the concert or making donations, can call Lupe Quiñonez at 871-1164.