A new mariachi band gives Lincoln students more choices for learning.
Lincoln Public Schools is proud to announce the citywide mariachi ensemble
that kicked off last month, with the support of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. Los Mariachis de la Ciudad Estrella (The Mariachis of the Star City), gives all Lincoln students in grades 8-12 a chance to learn and perform mariachi music. The ensemble will be centrally headquartered at Lincoln High School and there will be no audition process.
“This has been a goal of our music department to expand the music opportunities for students in LPS,” said Lance Nielsen, supervisor of music at Lincoln Public Schools. “Mariachi is one of the wonderful musical traditions of Mexico. This serves not only our music students who are interested in becoming more culturally relevant through music, but it also benefits and supports our growing Hispanic community in Lincoln. Mariachi has a strong presence in Hispanic culture and is a strong sense of pride for families.”
Making the experience open to all is a priority to help students explore, learn and perform authentic mariachi music. “Los Mariachis offers meaningful choices for Lincoln students to increase student and parent engagement in schools,” said Brett Noser, director of the ensemble. “The Mariachis of the Star City ensemble not only supports a responsible approach in providing music of diverse cultures, it also provides an avenue for music making in our growing Hispanic community. After attending two mariachi workshops, I am very excited that we are able to start Los Mariachis de la Ciudad Estrella. The goal is to foster academic success and to have all students connect and appreciate this beautiful music genre.”
"We are thrilled to partner with LPS on this project,” said Gary Reber, development officer for the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. “This is a great way to increase student, and parent, engagement and offer meaningful choices to all students. Our hope is that all students will come see what this is about. Whether you sing, play guitar, trumpet, or just want to learn more, come check it out!"
This community project needs help from the community. Instruments and clothing are expensive, especially for families in need. The Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools has launched a campaign to support the project now and into the future.
Gifts will help the Foundation offer this opportunity at little or no cost to students. “We hope to raise $35,000 for instruments and clothing,” Reber said. “We also hope to create a long-term endowed fund that will offer permanent support for instrument repair and maintenance. Lincoln is a diverse and tremendously supportive community. It will be fun to watch this new experience take wing.”
To find out more or support this unique musical experience, go to http://bit.ly/MariachiLPS
