La GuitarraFest

La GuitarraFest  June 23rd- June 29th  Ages 6 - 12, 13- 17, 18- 21+ “ The First Guitar Summer Program for all ages in Boston” Registration Deadline: June 15th, 2025  <ul><li>ONE WEEK PROGRAM </li><li>DAY PASS AVAILABLE </li></ul>DESCRIPTION  “La Guitarra” International Festival is a dynamic and inclusive music festival celebrating the guitar's versatility. Designed for students of all ages, the festival offers a unique educational experience that bridges genres—from classical guitar technique and masterpieces repertoire to the rhythms of popular music, the energy of rock, the improvisational freedom of jazz, and the vibrant tradition of Son Jarocho, a folkloric style from Veracruz, Mexico. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned artists, engage in hands-on workshops, and develop technical and creative skills across a diverse range of styles. “La Guitarra” aims to inspire the next generation of guitarists by fostering musical excellence, artistic exploration, and cultural exchange in an international community. In addition to guitar group lessons, students will have one hour of chorus to ensure voice and ear training. The inclusion of Son Jarocho dance and ensemble workshops invites all students to experience collective music-making and improvisation rooted in centuries of tradition—culminating in a joyful, community-driven performance.  REQUIREMENTS   General Requirements We welcome students of all levels, from beginners (at least three months experience) to advanced professionals To ensure a productive and smooth learning experience, participants should come prepared with the following: Classical Guitar Students:<ul><li>Classical guitar</li><li>Footstool</li><li>Music stand</li><li>Black folder for sheet music</li><li>A pen and notebook for notes</li><li>Cellphone (for recording or reference purposes)</li></ul>Popular, Rock, and Jazz Guitar Students:<ul><li>Guitar (electric or acoustic)</li><li>Music stand</li><li>Quarter-inch instrument cable</li><li>Tuner</li><li>You don't need to use amplifiers in practice rooms. They will only be provided during performance sessions and group classes.</li></ul>We encourage all students to arrive prepared and ready to explore their musical journey across styles.

The Foundry Cambridge 

FANDANGO VERACRUZANO 

Closing Event: Fandango Veracruzano – A Celebration of Music and Culture Join us for the grand finale of La GuitarraFest, a week-long celebration of music and learning, from June 23–29. This closing event, Fandango Veracruzano, brings together the vibrant energy of traditional Mexican music and dance to cap off a week of immersive workshops and masterclasses. Throughout the festival, participants have had the unique opportunity to explore classical guitar, jazz, acoustic guitar, and Son Jarocho with renowned instructors. Fandango Veracruzano is a powerful culmination of the festival’s mission to bridge diverse musical traditions. This lively celebration unites festival-goers, students, and artists in a joyous display of Latin American culture, marking the conclusion of a week filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable performances. Don’t miss this dynamic celebration of music, tradition, and community, as we close out La GuitarraFest in spectacular style.

The Foundry 

Maura Mendoza

Join us as we celebrate the musical journey of Maura Mendoza, a talented artist whose heartfelt songs and unique sound embody El Salvador's rich cultural heritage. This special event marks the release of her new album, showcasing her passion for storytelling and vibrant musical style. We invite you to be part of this unforgettable evening, featuring a live performance by Maura Mendoza and a chance to experience her music in an intimate setting. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with the Latin American music community and support an inspiring artist.

BAZAAR Mestizo Modern Mexican  Restaurant 

Join us to celebrate MESTIZO's 1st Anniversary with artisan Bazaar, delicious Mestizo's Menu, exotic cocktails, and amazing LIVE MUSIC Please bring your friends to make memories with us and to take pictures at our photo booth.

Mesitzo Modern Mexican Restaurant 

“Fandango Through the Centuries: A Celebration of Son Jarocho"

Tembembe Ensamble Continuo is currently the Wolff Distinguished Visiting Scholar at Harvard University. This event is possible thanks to a collaboration between Tembembe, Alejandro L. Madrid (Walter W. Naumburg Professor of Music at Harvard University), and LAMFest, Zaira Meneses Artistic Director MCMass SON JAROCHOBOSTON UNAM-BOSTON FANDANGO WE ALL PLAY AND DANCE TOGETHER This is not a performance, it is a safe space for all of us to dance, eat and play music together. The&nbsp;Latin American Music Festival&nbsp;is thrilled to welcome&nbsp;Tembembe Ensamble&nbsp;from Mexico for a special night of music and tradition! We invite you to be part of our&nbsp;FIRST&nbsp;OFICIAL&nbsp;Fandango in a new Fandango series—a lively celebration of Son Jarocho, where music, dance, and community come together. ✨&nbsp;What to Expect: 🎶 Live music with&nbsp;Tembembe Ensamble 💃 Traditional zapateado (percussive dance) 🎻 Improvisation and musical exchanges What to Bring:<ul><li>Your&nbsp;instruments! : Violin or any other string instrument, Jaranas, guitars, percussions, any instrument to improvise with us</li><li>Tap, flamenco, or boots&nbsp;with heels</li><li>Bring a Traditional Mexican Dish&nbsp;to share and connect with others!</li></ul>Write down your information<a href="https://forms.gle/zyy5WqAAtFkppMS47">&nbsp;HERE&nbsp;</a>about the instrument and dish you want to bring!! Let's celebrate the vibrant spirit of the&nbsp;Fandango, a centuries-old tradition rooted in Indigenous, African, and Hispanic influences. Whether you’re a musician, dancer, or simply a culture lover, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Come and be part of this unforgettable afternoon —everyone is welcome!&nbsp;🎉

Jose Matteo Oliva Ballet Theater 

Valentine's Day Fest! 

FUN, FUN, FUN! OPEN MIC! Let's have fun together! Meet New People, network, and enjoy delicious food, drinks, and love. Amor a la Mexicana is the perfect way to make your Valentine's Day one to remember! Whether you're a single soul ready to practice your Spanish while savoring authentic Mexican flavors, a couple seeking to deepen your connection in an enchanting atmosphere, or a Latin American friend eager to meet new faces, Amor a la Mexicana has something special for everyone! Join us for a celebration of love, laughter, and new connections. Enjoy delicious Mexican food, drinks, botanas, live music, poetry, and karaoke, with a danzón dance class to set the mood! If you're feeling anxious about meeting new people, no worries—bring your dog along to keep you company. We can't wait to share this unforgettable experience with you, so come for the love, stay for the flavors, and leave with new memories! Guest Artists: Martin Silva, Maura Mendoza, Son JarochoBoston, Zaira Meneses

Concierto Navideño

CONCIERTO NAVIDEÑO! Classical Meets Fiesta 🎶 Join us for a spectacular family concert featuring Orchestra Unidos under the brilliant baton of Venezuelan conductor Jorge Soto! This thrilling evening will spotlight the extraordinary talents of American-Mexican pianist Raquel Fisk, performing Mozart's Concerto alongside legendary classical guitarist Eliot Fisk, his disciple Adam Levin, and Mexican classical guitarist Zaira Meneses. From the elegance of Classical masterpieces to the vibrant rhythms of Latin American traditions, "Concerto Navideño" promises an exhilarating program for all. The concert will include everything from Mozart and Vivaldi to the energetic Son Jarocho, recently performed at the BSO Pops! 🎉 To wrap up the night, join us for a festive party with Karen Villalobos Mariachi and Zaira Meneses Son JarochoBoston music—bringing Mexican traditions' warmth, joy, and energy to the stage! Zaira Meneses, a featured artist from the BSO Pops, will perform some of this incredible music. JORGE SOTO, CONDUCTOR Jorge Soto is a Venezuelan conductor and violinist with an active and diverse career in North and South America. He is the Principal Conductor of the New Philharmonia Orchestra, the Principal Guest Conductor of the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra, and the Music Director of the Sistema Side-by-Side Orchestra at Longy School of Music. GUEST ARTISTS : RAQUEL FISK, PIANIST By age 13, Raquel Fisk had completed her first concert tour in China, performing in cities such as Hangzhou, Taicang, and Shanghai. She made her Carnegie Hall at the age of 14. At 16, she made her debut in Xalapa, Mexico as a soloist with Camille Saint-Saëns' demanding Concerto No. 2 in G minor under the baton of Maestro LanFranco Marcelletti. In addition to her frequent performances in the Boston area, Raquel garnered critical acclaim at the renowned Bethlehem Bach Festival. In 2017, she secured first place at the NEPTA Ruth Davidson Competition, the MTNA, and the Extravaganza Competition. Raquel returned to Xalapa in 2018 to perform at the beautiful hall of ISMEV. That same year, she won first place in the MMTA Annual Bay State Contest and second place at the NEPTA Alice Hamlet Senior Scholarship Competition. Raquel was invited at 18 to continue her studies in Florence under one of Italy’s most celebrated concert pianists, Maestro Andrea Lucchesini. After a year in Florence, she moved to Boston to study under Gila Goldstein before pursuing her undergraduate studies in San Francisco under the guidance of Jon Nakamatsu. In 2024, she won the state division of the MTNA competition with Schumann and Beethoven under Professor Nakamatsu’s tutelage. Public speaking background In her formative teenage years, Raquel demonstrated extraordinary prowess in Speech and Debate, where she distinguished herself with a series of notable accolades. Her oratorical brilliance and interpretive skills garnered the coveted 1st Prize at the prestigious Lincoln-Sudbury and Columbia Invitational Declamation events. Her exceptional talent was acknowledged with 2nd Prizes at the Holly Tournament and Newton South High School Declamation competitions. Her versatility was evident in Play Reading, where she achieved a commendable 3rd Prize at Lincoln-Sudbury. Her recognition marked Raquel's promising debut as Top Novice at the Lincoln-Sudbury, Gracia Tournament, and the National Catholic Forensic League, showcasing her burgeoning potential and remarkable achievements in competitive speech. ZAIRA MENESES, GUITAR She presents her Boston Pops Debut on November 1st, 2024; she is the first female classical guitarist ever to perform with the BSO; Zaira Meneses was born in Xalapa Veracruz; she has been highly acclaimed by international media for her work, The New York Times wrote, [she is] “an arresting performer full of colorful touches.” The Providence Journal referred to her as the “Mexican classical dynamo,” and The Boston Globe called her [an] “eminent classical guitarist.” Since moving to the USA in 2001, Meneses has built a stellar reputation for her warm sound, limpid technique, and superb natural musicality, performing in many of the great concert halls of the world, including Boston’s Jordan Hall, New York City’s Alice Tully Hall, 92nd St. YHMA and Carnegie Hall, Chicago’s Pick – Staiger Auditorium and in Salzburg’s Wiener Saal. Meneses became the first female classical guitarist ambassador of the Son Jarocho dancer, singer, Jarana, and requinto player in Boston thanks to the support of a grant from The Boston Foundation in 2018. Meneses is the founder and president of non-profit organization Latin American Music Festival, founder and executive director of orchestra "Unidos", founder of Eliot Fisk Guitar Academy (EFGA), and has been co-director of the Boston Guitar Festival for the past twenty years. In 2019, Leo Brouwer composed six preludes for Meneses to be recorded in 2025, together with Brouwer's latest composition: "Danza Macabra," dedicated to Meneses to perform with the Boston Pops. The Eileen L. McDonagh &amp; Robert E. Davoli Charitable Foundation, the Latin American Music Festival, and the Augustine Foundation commissioned the music. KAREN VILLALOBOS, SINGER Known professionally as Karen Villa, she is a Mexican-American singer celebrated for performing in traditional mariachi, norteño, and ranchera music. Born in Mexico City, Karen moved to the United States with her family when she was six years old. She was raised in a working-class family in Boston, Massachusetts. She is the daughter of singer, musician, and recording artist Jorge Villalobos. At 18, Karen and her father performed with their mariachi band, Mariachi Azteca 2000, at numerous multicultural events, restaurants, and private gatherings across New England. Inspired by her father, Karen pursued a career in traditional Mexican music, drawing influence from iconic artists such as Rocio Durcal, Lucha Villa, Linda Ronstadt, Alicia Villareal, Selena, and Aida Cuevas. Karen’s versatile voice has led her down various musical paths. She has contributed to many other genres of music, including jazz, cumbia, pop, bachata, and bolero, in addition to her mariachi performances. She was invited to perform a tribute to Shakira, singing songs from the album Pies Descalzos at a Colombian festival in Rhode Island. The Colombian American Cultural Society and America News RI calls her “Todo un Hit”. Her debut album, a bachata duet titled Amarte es mi talento with Carlo Manny, received significant airplay on New England radio, giving her considerable exposure. Despite her growing popularity, Karen decided to take a hiatus from singing to focus on starting her family. Although she was relatively unknown outside of Massachusetts then, she performed on several occasions at the Mexican Consulate in Boston and for the New England Patriots. Karen has also performed at the Lighthouse ArtSpace in Boston for Women’s History Month, at the Frida Kahlo exhibit, and the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology for Day of the Dead events. Karen is a phenomenal singer and a kind and gracious person. Her music accompanies people through various life events, providing a soundtrack to their celebrations, milestones, and moments of heartbreak. Her ability to evoke a full range of emotions through her music makes her a beloved performer. ELIOT FISK, GUITAR In addition to his extensive solo career, Eliot has premiered major works by Robert Beaser, Luciano Berio, Nicholas Maw, Xavier Montsalvatge, Kurt Schwertsik, and George Rochberg, among others. He has further enriched the guitar repertoire through numerous transcriptions of works by composers ranging from Bach and D. Scarlatti to Paganini (he is the first guitarist to record all 24 Capricci from Paganini’s Op. 1), Mendelssohn, Albeniz, and de Falla. Fisk is virtually the last direct disciple of Andrés Segovia and, as such, seeks to combine the great romantic tradition with the best of modernity. ADAM LEVIN, GUITAR Praised for his “visceral and imaginative performances” by the Washington Post, prize-winning and Billboard top-charting classical guitarist and recording artist Adam Levin has performed on four continents across the globe. Levin has performed extensively across the United States at renowned venues such as Chicago’s Pick Staiger, Nichols, and Mayne Stage concert halls as well as at the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago; Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and Jordan Hall; Spivey Hall in Atlanta; repeat appearances at Le Poisson Rouge in New York City; and the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. In Europe, Levin has performed in some of the finest venues across Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Israel, China, Brazil, and Columbia. Adam Levin’s live performances have been featured nationally numerous times on NPR’s Performance Today, the nationally syndicated Classical Guitar Alive, and studio performances on top radio stations, including WFMT Chicago, WCRB Boston, and RIPR Rhode Island. SON JAROCHOBOSTON Zaira Meneses, founder and leader of Son Jarocho Boston since 2018. The band is formed by Zaira Meneses, singer, requinto dancer and jarana player, Kristen Graser, jarana, Akili Jamal, percussion, Froylan Hernandez,singer, jarana, Hector Zavala, singer jarana, Angel Armas Violin, dancer, Patricia Arellano, dancer, quijada de burro, Guillermo Ortiz, jarana.

TSAI Performance Center

Dia De Muertos Fest/ Day of Dead

DAY OF THE DEAD FEST! - WELCOME EVERYONE TO THE DAY OF DEAD FEST &amp; MARKET! FREE EVENT! What is the Day of the Dead? Come and join us for a Day of Dead celebration! Discover the meaning behind OFRENDAS (altars), indulge in traditional pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and hot chocolate, and experience the richness of Mexican culture. You can also get creative by customizing yourself as a Catrina or Catrín. At the end of the event, we will hold a festive procession followed by a contest to crown the best dressed. Don’t miss this colorful celebration—everyone is welcome, and entrance is free! Celebrate the Day of the Dead with delicious food, snacks, music, and art! We are delighted to welcome our wonderful Vendors to our Day of Dead Celebration!!!! Check out their amazing handmade treasures. LINKS BELOW. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DULCETIERRAMX">Dulce Tierra</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/treasureswithlove">Treasures With Love</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarceSnack">Potosina Snack</a> <a href="https://www.mikeyscookie.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawF831ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHf9Y5-4FmL8KrReEn-CpYRmygxx72PyTJFRl4_bf37KOOjPNSv4zDyHAAQ_aem_8C31kVClU_IevGIBDtD-Og">Mikey's Cookies</a> <a href="https://www.boston.unam.mx/?lang=en">UNAMBOSTON</a> <a href="https://www.tbf.org/">THE BOSTON FOUNDATION</a> CAMPAÑA NACIONAL CATRIN &amp; CATRINA COMPETITION !! Dress to Impress!!! This is an excellent opportunity to dress up and shine like your favorite Catrin Catrina. The winner will receive a GIFT CERTIFICATE from Mezcal Restaurant, a few blocks from The Foundry! ( 5mins walking ) General Rules<ul><li>All participants have to check-in</li><li>After Check-in, participants are welcome to have fun and purchase art, food, and drink.</li><li>Participants have to walk the Catrina's Walkway.</li></ul>Selecting Winner<ul><li>Best Makeup</li><li>Best &amp; Original Outfit</li></ul>

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

latinamericanmusicfestival

Experiences