Mariachi Season 2016-2017

9/30/2016

The sounds of mariachi are in the air at Cunah Middle School in Half Moon Bay. We are excited to kick off another season of mariachi education that ignites the spirit and tradition of the beautiful music that transcends generations. As we grow the next generation of mariachi artists, we recognize that the gift of music offers so much more than just a song. For us at ALAS we have been excited to see the fruits of our mariachi program extend into areas of academic success, leadership, relationships and community heroes.

How does mariachi make all this happen?
Always believing that each of our youth are leaders and are waiting for a stage to shine
Learning together and opening the pipeline of education for our youth to thrive
Acknowledging the natural talent that is waiting to come alive in our youth through music
Singing the songs of our ancestors and families, keeping alive traditions and culture

Our teachers of mariachi give back each week to drive long distances to make the trek over the windy road of 92 to give back to our kids. In a recent interview by Bay Area Life, Channel 7, the question was posed to Rigo Campos, our Director asking "why do you do this?" With emotion, Rigo's answer was simple "because I see myself in them" We all see our selves in our youth of ALAS. That child that has a dream, that youth that wants to make his family proud, that singer that wants to be the best he can, that mom or dad that takes their child every week to class no matter how tired, that teacher that sees himself in each child wanting to learn. This is what makes our mariachi program so special. This is how it all happens. ALAS is proud to see what awaits Mariachi Media Luna in 2016-2017..

Belinda Hernandez-Arriaga

Belinda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Founder of A.L.A.S. She also is Faculty at the University of San Francisco, where she teaches in the Counseling Department. She has a doctorate in International and Multicultural Education. Her research is focused on the psychological trauma experienced by many in the immigration system as well as understanding healing spaces in the Latino community.

Community Testimonio

"For me ALAS is family, they have helped us to be connected to one another, to be proud of our culture and to find help when we need support. ALAS has given me hope and has been there for my us, Thanks to God for all those that help make this possible for us."

"On behalf of my family, thank you. Thank you very much. We cannot express how much you have support us during this difficult time. Not only do you help Latinos dream, but you also give us THE WINGS to stand up when we feel down. Thank you very much."

"We have been very grateful to receive alas' services and help, so much or little it is a great relief during this time."