Rosie’s House Rings in the Season with Soulful Sounds

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Rosie’s House

In a world where music can bridge divides, Rosie’s House is composing a masterpiece of community and opportunity in Phoenix. This beacon of hope for underserved youth is preparing to fill the air with the vibrant sounds of mariachi and the joyous melodies of the holiday season.

For nearly three decades, Rosie’s House has been a music school and more; it’s been a catalyst for change, offering free music education to over 650 students annually. As one of the largest 100% free after-school music programs nationwide, Rosie’s House provides over 28,670 free music lessons each year in a wide variety of disciplines, including strings, winds, brass, mariachi, choir, digital music, piano, guitar, percussion and early childhood.

“Our Rosie’s House concerts are a vital celebration of culture and community,” says Becky Bell Ballard, CEO of Rosie’s House. “They provide our students with the opportunity to showcase their talents, deepen their understanding of diverse musical traditions, and experience firsthand the power of collaboration.”

This fall, the organization is set to showcase the fruits of its labor with a series of concerts that promise to captivate and inspire. The musical journey begins with the Mariachi Celebration Weekend, a two-day extravaganza that pays homage to a genre deeply rooted in Arizona’s cultural tapestry.

Mariachi Pueblo Viejo brings the soul-stirring sounds of Mexico to Phoenix, inspiring Rosie’s House students with their world-class talent and cultural authenticity.

On Saturday, Nov. 23, the acclaimed Mariachi Pueblo Viejo will take center stage at the Herberger Theater Center, bringing the soul-stirring sounds of Mexico to downtown Phoenix.

Founded in May 2021 by Manny Ponce, Mariachi Pueblo Viejo is composed of both working professionals and college students. Their mission is to preserve the culture and authentic rich mariachi sound, promising to wow audiences of all ages and demographics.

“We are honored to showcase the world-class talent of Mariachi Pueblo Viejo,” Ballard notes, “who will not only be performing for the celebration weekend but will also be holding a masterclass with our students during the week.”

But the real stars will shine the following day when Rosie’s House students present their youth mariachi concert. These young musicians, draped in traditional charro attire, will demonstrate how mariachi music serves as a bridge between generations and cultures.

As the calendar turns to December, Rosie’s House will usher in the holiday spirit with its annual “Season to Shine” concert on Sunday, Dec. 8. This beloved Phoenix tradition, now in its 25th year, will feature students performing a mix of holiday favorites and classical pieces, creating a warm, festive atmosphere that embodies the season’s spirit of giving and community.

Looking ahead to spring, the Great Performers Showcase on April 6 will offer a glimpse into the future of music, as Rosie’s House’s most talented students across all programs take the stage to demonstrate their hard-earned skills.

These concerts are more than just performances; they’re a testament to the transformative power of music education. Rosie’s House students, who take individual or group lessons for an average of five consecutive years, learn music and more. They develop discipline, practice regularly, overcome challenges and make public presentations – all skills essential for success in the 21st century.

“Music education plays a crucial role in developing well-rounded individuals,” Ballard explains. “These performances allow our students to shine while enriching the cultural fabric of our community.”

In a world where arts education often falls by the wayside, Rosie’s House stands as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to change lives. With a team of 22 highly educated and qualified faculty members, the organization not only provides music education but also offers community service, college path and mentoring programs.

As the melodies of mariachi and the harmonies of the holidays fill the air this season, they carry with them the promise of a brighter future — one note at a time.

“Through music,” Ballard concludes, “we not only foster creativity but also strengthen the bonds that connect us as a community.”

Mariachi Pueblo Viejo Concert

Saturday, Nov. 23 // 7:30 p.m. // Herberger Theater Center // 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix // $52.50; $32.50 for students // rosieshouse.org

Youth Mariachi Concert

Sunday, Nov. 24 // 4 p.m. // Herberger Theater Center // 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix // Free; RSVP required // rosieshouse.org

Season to Shine

Sunday, Dec. 8 // 4 p.m. // Herberger Theater Center // 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix // Free; RSVP required // rosieshouse.org