With support from the California Arts Council, City of San Fernando Mariachi Master Apprentice Program will connect Grammy Award winning music artists with under served youth in an after school experience emphasizing beginner to advanced mariachi folk instrument instruction, arrangement and performance skills. Targeting grades 3-12, the 32wk program embodies artistic and historical concepts to preserve traditional mariachi music. Curriculum builds self-confidence, pride and positive identity.
The Department offers year round beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes in dance, music, and the performing arts. A sampling of programs includes: Mexican Folk Dance, Mariachi Master Apprentice Program, Line Dance, Danza Azteca & Cultura, Senior Music/Voice, Art for all abilities, and Zumba/Jazz classes. In addition, the Department is responsible for seasonal sports, summer and winter youth camps, exercise classes, health and wellness, and senior programs.
The City has a long history of sponsoring and administering numerous annual cultural arts performances and special events such as: Cesar Chavez March & Arts Festival, Spring Jamboree, Open Streets, 4th of July Celebration, El Grito-Mexican Independence Day, Chile Festival, Outdoor Summer Concert Series, JAM Sessions, Dia de Los Muertos, 5k, Movie Nights, Halloween, and various Holiday Celebrations.