Musicians interested in learning more about Mariachi performance are encouraged to register for a master class with Rachel Yvonne Cruz, a renowned Mariachi educator from San Antonio, Texas.

For $50, musicians can partake in classes from 1-4 p.m. on Friday, September 16 at the Topeka Performing Arts Center with the option of performing in the evening. The cost includes one ticket to the evening concert. Cruz will provide a brief history of Mariachi music, instrumentation and attire before dividing the group into sectionals by interment, including armonia, trumpet, violin and vocal.

“We started this event as a celebration of Mexican heritage in Topeka. What better way to continue that than providing education,” said Rosa Cavazos, director of tourism development for Visit Topeka. “This master class is open to musicians of all ability levels.”

Participants must register by Monday, Sept. 12 at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2598240. A link to registration and the detailed schedule can be found at https://www.VisitTopeka.com/mariachi. 

Cruz leads Mariachi Internatcional de IAMA, a renowned Mariachi education program and serves as artistic director for Mariachi Corazón de San Antonio. The group shares the Kansas Mariachi Festival stage at 6 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Topeka Performing Arts Center along with Mariachi Aguilas de America. Tickets are on sale now for $15.

Between performances, Mana de Topeka will present its annual Latina Awards, recognizing outstanding community members.

After the concert, a street party with live music and a Taste of Mexico beverage garden will be held outside TPAC. Admission is $20 for five beverage tickets, which can be shared among a group.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Topeka City Council meeting on Tuesday, September 13 will include a Mariachi performance and official proclamation the month-long celebration of Hispanic heritage in Topeka.

As Topeka's official destination marketing organization, Visit Topeka is dedicated to marketing the region as an exceptional destination for meetings, events, sports and leisure tourism, thereby enhancing the local economy. Visit Topeka is a 501(c)6 not-for-profit organization. Find more information at VisitTopeka.com.

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