Palomazo Academy is a great emerging music program that is part of the HALOS After School Program in Santa Ana High School, Santa Ana, California. Palomazo provides students with access to quality Mexican Regional style instruments, a safe space to learn and create, and a mentor to guide them along the way. Under the tutelage of other musicians, Mexican and Mexican-American students in Santa Ana High School are learning all about the corrido format, bombastic and melodic style of Mexican Regional Music. Non-Mexicans are always welcome in these spaces, as it is not uncommon for these spaces to use the term ‘Latin’ to reference non-Mexican origin individuals looking to vibe with this music.
On their website, the Palomazo academy mentions that they provide a course in Mexican Regional music can train individuals in playing the tuba, a brass instrument known for its deep and rich sound that typically provides the bassline and rhythmic support in the music.
The course will also cover drums, which play a vital role in creating the rhythm and driving the energy of the music, often incorporating various percussion techniques and patterns.
Another instrument that will be covered is the tololoche, a Mexican bass instrument that serves as the backbone of the traditional music, providing a solid low-end foundation and rhythmic accompaniment.
In addition, the course will teach students how to play the accordion, a versatile instrument that plays melodic lines, chords, and harmonies, often adding a distinct and vibrant sound to the music.
Through this course, individuals will learn scales, songs, and improvisations on these instruments, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the rich sounds and traditions of Mexican Regional music. Anyone can see the results in their Instagram here.
Per their website, the academy describes the genre they train in as follow: “Regional Mexican music encompasses the musical genres from the various parts of rural Mexico and the Southwestern United States, artists perform different styles of songs such as rancheras, corridos, cumbias, boleros, and ballads. We’re dedicated to mentoring, providing access to expensive instruments, and creating a safe space for student to learn and grow.“
Impact, Cultural Relevance
Santa Ana, California, is one of the most Mexican centric cities in Southern California. The Mexican consulate, restaurant and cultural institutions around Mexican cuisine and culture all call the county seat of Orange County home. It only makes sense that these talented bilingual students would turn the music of their fathers and grandfathers as a creative outlet.