Son de la Gila – Mariachi Conference

Exploring the rich history & culture of the southwest through mariachi. Son de la Gila The Son de la Gila Mariachi Conference is focused on the promotion and education of young musicians and music educators in the cultural significance of the mariachi artform through advanced music training and performance on the Western New Mexico University Campus. Located in the shadows of the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest, Western New Mexico University has been educating and training students from around the world since 1893. With a strong connection to the preservation, conservation, and recreation in the Gila National Forest, Son de la Gila is a testament to the import connection between the natural world that surrounds us and musical expression.   2023 Performers The final showcase performance provides students and instructors the opportunity to perform on the stage at Regents Square on the WNMU campus, kicking off the university’s signature annual event,...

Bi-national Indigenous Expo/Encuentro

The 2023 Bi-National Indigenous Expo/Encuentro is a binational event focused on Indigenous art, music, culture, storytelling, and the important role of youth hosted by Western New Mexico University in Silver City, NM. This Bi-National Indigenous Encounter features artisans/storytellers and academics from both Mexico’s and hopes to bring the intersection of Indigenous perspectives and culture from both sides of New Mexico’s Border. This is an all-in-person, face-to-face, format event. For more information and a full listing of events, visit the Expo...

Mariachi Estrella de Mexico

EL MARIACHI ESTRELLA DE MEXICO, was founded in June 2008, in the city of Guadalajara Jalisco Mexico, The Founders were the Alfaro Brothers. (Ricardo, Martin, Manuel). This Project was born Thanks to the passion of mariachi music and the patriotic need to represent Mexican culture and roots. In its beginnings it was made up of ten musicians, the goal was very clear, to reach the peak of success. The difficulties began with the lack of credibility of the people in this project, but the perseverance, study and preparation of each of the musicians ended up making them popular. It is good to say that there were some important factors that drove the group to succeed, the family support and the union between the members influenced too much to achieve the goals set. After 2 months of beginning, EL MARIACHI ESTRELLA DE MEXICO was invited to participate in the XV International Encounter of Mariachi and Charreria, held in the city of Guadalajara, his participation in the festivals and in some...

New Mexico Basic Economic Development Course

From July 16 – 20, 2023, Western New Mexico University is hosting the New Mexico Basic Economic Development Course for municipal and county managers and department directors, tribal leaders, community planners and developers, and others interested in community job creation. The New Mexico Basic Economic Development Course provides a one-week intensive training in a setting that is nationally recognized for its beauty and southwestern charm. The course teaches how to select the right combination of strategies to cost-effectively create jobs in various communities. Certified by the International Economic Development Council, the program features specific faculty who present from professional experience, as well as academic theory. Get more information and register...