Venerable retirement haven San Miguel de Allende alters its musicality due to flourishing youth-centric activities
In the heart of Mexico, the picturesque town of San Miguel de Allende is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Known primarily as a retirement destination, it is now evolving into a dynamic cultural hub for younger families and children, with a flourishing music scene at its core.
One of the driving forces behind this change is Teen Connect SMA, a community theater and music group founded by Kirsten McCormick in January 2021. This organisation, which now boasts over 100 families, puts on theatrical music productions and sponsors unplugged adventure camps for youth, promoting a phone-free environment that encourages participation and creativity.
The musical scene in San Miguel de Allende has seen a significant surge in interest and participation, thanks in part to the efforts of local music professor Mario Moya and drum teacher Luis Flores. Moya, classically trained on harpsichord, piano, and guitar, is passionate about bringing art and music to financially challenged families, offering scholarships for music lessons.
Flores, a native of San Miguel de Allende, launched his music program for children and teens in 2023. Influenced by punk rock and skateboarding culture, he started playing the drums at the age of eight and spent 15 years in California before returning home. In his program, kids can do regular live gigs in public parks, local cafes, and restaurants, providing them with valuable performance experience.
The demand for youth activities in San Miguel de Allende is higher than ever, with private-sector support providing more opportunities for lower-income families. The town's infrastructure for youth is impressive, with organisations like Teen Connect SMA putting on musical productions, Luis Flores teaching drums to over 50 students, a youth orchestra, new music stores, and skateboarding parks.
The musical scene in San Miguel de Allende is expected to benefit the community, with the presence of young families and retirees at events creating a positive energy and atmosphere. The town's annual FASMA summer arts festival (August 1-17, 2025) is a prime example, with over 100 cultural activities including concerts, theater, and workshops spread across local venues.
In conclusion, San Miguel de Allende is enhancing its offerings for children and youth with active music programs, theater groups, live performance opportunities, and family-oriented cultural events that together emphasize creative growth and community involvement in the arts. The town's evolving music scene is a testament to its commitment to nurturing the younger generations and fostering a vibrant cultural community.
[1] Teen Connect SMA: https://www.teenconnectsma.com/ [2] Luis Flores Music Program: https://www.facebook.com/LuisFloresDrums/ [3] FASMA Summer Arts Festival: https://www.fasma.org.mx/
- The energy in San Miguel de Allende is growing, as the town transforms from a retirement destination into a cultural hub, with a vivid music scene at its core.
- Teen Connect SMA, a community organization, is a significant factor in this change, organizing theatrical music productions, sponsoring unplugged adventure camps, and promoting creativity.
- In addition, local music professor Mario Moya and drum teacher Luis Flores are working diligently to bring art and music to financially challenged families, offering scholarships and teaching skills.
- Luis Flores, a native of San Miguel de Allende, launched a music program for children and teens in 2023, inspiring a new generation with his passion for punk rock, skateboarding culture, and live performances.
- As a result of this increased focus on youth activities, the demand for creative outlets is higher than ever, with private-sector support leading to more opportunities for lower-income families.
- The annual FASMA summer arts festival showcases the town's commitment to nurturing the younger generations, featuring over 100 cultural activities including concerts, theater, and workshops, creating an atmosphere of learning and personal growth.
