Sinfonia Mexicana Mariachi Youth Academy celebrates its 10th anniversary with a concert performance in Colton. Since its founding in 2009, the Academy has been guided by the belief that Music Education is transformative and positively impacts the lives of students and their communities. Over 500 students from Colton, San Bernardino and surrounding cities have walked through the Academy doors – where they learn to read music, understand music theory, and learn to play their instrument.
As cultural ambassadors of Mariachi, they have shared a stage with many world-renowned artists including the Mariachi Divas, Mariachi Vargas, Los Camperos de Nati Cano, Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez, and the San Bernardino Symphony. Academy students have inspired audiences and communities with their music, their passion, and their commitment to keeping the cultural traditions of Mariachi alive.
The Academy students, past and present, truly exemplify that music education for youth changes lives, and enriches and brightens the fabric of a community. The Board of Directors and staff are proud of all the students, from the first group that started in 2009, now alumni, to our current students. The Academy has contributed to their academic and music success, their high school and college graduations, and their life accomplishments.
The 10th-anniversary concert celebration features Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea, a two-time Grammy Award winner and long-time Academy supporter. Also featured will be Folkloricio del Desierto Ballet Folklorico performing their colorful and unique dance interpretations - it promises to be a truly visual and culturally rich experience for the entire family.
“We couldn’t be more proud of all of the Academy students – they are the reason for the Academy. It’s been an honor to be part of their lives,” stated Maria Saenz, Academy Director.
The Whitmer Auditorium doors open at 2:00 p.m. and we encourage you to arrive early to enjoy traditional foods that will be available for purchase before the concert. Tickets are $30 and $20 and may be purchased in person at the California Theater, at 562 W. 4th St., San Bernardino, Monday through Friday from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. For best reserved-seat selection, purchase your tickets in advance.
For ticket information or sponsorship opportunities, please call (909) 744-2176. Sinfonia Mexicana is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and all proceeds will support the youth music education program.