Gael Valdez
Del Oro's Mariachi group, Rayos de Oro, performed in Room 603 as part of the initial Rising Suns Weekly Tiny Classroom Concert series.
Monday marks the start of Hispanic Heritage month. For our first Tiny Classroom Concert, we selected Del Oro’s Mariachi band, Rayos de Oro, to perform two songs in Room 603. (They also performed a bonus song.) The Sunburst staff, along with the students in the after-school Rising Suns Weekly broadcast program, agreed that it was important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month – especially when you consider that more than 90 percent of Del Oro’s student population is Hispanic.
Hispanic culture has brought so many traditions, foods, music, and values that help shape this country. Hispanic Heritage month provides people with the opportunity to learn about the struggles and accomplishments of the Del Oro community. It also creates a sense of pride, knowing that Hispanic history and contributions are being honored.
Most of all, it’s a reminder that diversity makes us stronger and brings us together.
Ramon Figueroa, Del Oro’s Mariachi teacher, said Rayos de Oro is hosting a concert called “Independencia Mexicana” with South High, Arvin High, and Bakersfield College’s Mariachi group.
There will also be performances from local performers Dulce Armonia, Mariachi Ciudad and Allesandra Gutierrez.
The concert begins at 5 p.m. in the quad. Tickets are $10 for concert-only admission, $15 for a dinner-only option, and $20 for a concert and dinner. Figueroa said money raised from the event will go toward a trip to New York City’s Carnegie Hall in June for Kern High School District students.
Tickets can be bought directly from Del Oro Mariachi students, online or at the door.
Additionally, Del Oro’s ASB is hosting a week of Hispanic Heritage theme days:
Monday – Botas & Bling: Wear your boots and bling
Tuesday – ¡Sí se Puede!: Dress for your future career
Wednesday – Feliz Quince: Dress as if it’s your quince, chambelanes or damas
Thursday – Raise Your Flag: Dress in your cultural flag colors
Friday – Fútbol Friday: Wear your favorite sports jersey