Los Cenzontles Cultural Arts Academy

Los Cenzontles Cultural Arts Academy offers classes where children and teens can learn guitar, singing, accordion, dance, arts and crafts, cooking, and music. The program also includes folk arts and crafts as part of its activities.

• Ages: 5–18 years old

Founded in 1989, Los Cenzontles Cultural Arts Academy is a nonprofit cultural arts academy, a band, a production studio, and a community space for youth and families. Its mission is to work together to amplify Mexican roots in the Bay Area and beyond. The academy’s core band members serve as programming staff and teachers, and students are invited to perform with the band on stage and participate in production projects. Los Cenzontles is recognized around the world for its positive impact.

Considered a second home for generations of local families, the academy invites children to learn music, dance, and folk arts and crafts and to play a role in maintaining living traditions. One parent, Heidi Lopez, shares that Los Cenzontles has helped her daughter Sophia develop her talent as a dancer and a connection to her Mexican roots, and calls it a priceless resource for youth and the community. Student Jorge Raya, age 15, describes Los Cenzontles as a second home where he does something he loves. Alumni member Lola describes Los Cenzontles as a sanctuary for people of all ages and nationalities that encompasses rich Mexican culture through music and dance. The New York Times writes that Los Cenzontles “both honors and upends traditional Mexican music, tapping deep roots as it flowers into something completely new, and distinctly American.” Singer Linda Ronstadt describes Los Cenzontles as the best community-based arts program she has seen.

Last updated May 10, 2026.