A New Musical Journey Begins at DLINC: Introducing Our Music & Mariachi Pathway!
At DLINC, we believe music is more than an art form, it’s culture, identity, joy, and community. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand‑new DLINC Music & Mariachi Program, a multi‑year pathway designed to grow with our students from 4th through 8th grade.
This is the beginning of something truly special. Our vision is bold: a full, thriving mariachi program rooted in high‑quality instruction, equitable access, and deep cultural pride. And like all great ensembles, we’re starting with intention, care, and strong foundations.
What Students Will Experience in 2026–2027
4th Grade — Recorder Foundations
Our youngest musicians will begin with recorder instruction every other Wednesday. Recorder is a powerful starter instrument that builds breath control, finger dexterity, and music literacy — all essential for future violin foundations once we secure a violin instructor.
5th Grade — Coro (Choir)
Fifth graders will participate in coro every other Wednesday, strengthening:
Ear training
Harmony
Spanish diction
Confidence
Coro prepares students beautifully for instrumental mariachi in middle school.
6th–8th Grade — Mariachi Instrumental Music
Middle school students will receive hands‑on instruction from an experienced mariachi musician on Mondays/Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Instruments offered this year:
Guitar (2–4 students)
Vihuela (2–4 students)
Trumpet (2–3 students)
Guitarrón (2–3 students)
Small groups = strong technique, focused instruction, and confident young musicians.
🎶 Open Practice Lab — After School
To help students grow even faster, we’re launching an after‑school practice lab on Thursdays and/or Fridays:
For students already in instrumental groups
Supervised by staff with musical experience
Designed to build independence, consistency, and pride
How Students Will Be Selected
We’re beginning with small, interest‑based groups to ensure quality and fairness.
Selection will be based on:
Student Interest (most important)- Students will complete an interest form at school.
Readiness for Small‑Group Learning- Focus, teamwork, responsibility, attendance.
Cultural Connection (when applicable)- Honoring students for whom mariachi is meaningful while welcoming all.
Instrument Balance- Safe, functional group sizes.
Space & Staffing
This process avoids “first‑come, first‑served,” which can unintentionally disadvantage families with less time or resources.
Our Commitment to Growth
This is just the beginning. As staffing expands, we will continue adding new instruments, including violin, until we have a full, vibrant 4th–8th grade mariachi pathway.
Our goal is simple: A program that is beautiful, sustainable, culturally rooted, and worthy of our students.
Thank You, DLINC Families
We are honored to bring this program to our community. Thank you for your partnership, your patience, and your excitement as we build something extraordinary together.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out. We can’t wait to begin this musical journey with you.