Los Arribeños de San Francisco

In July, 2023 we welcomed musicians from Los Arribeños de San Francisco for a one-night fandango in the Alta California style of California’s history, specifically when it was part of México. the Mexican period of  the California Fandango Project. Led by tecolero Jim Letchworth reviewed musical styles and taught dances which were then executed with their ensemble’s live music. One of the highlights was offering the dancers a freeform opportunity to use the step combinations they learned while the tecolero called out the next sequence or formation, similar to what a caller does in American square dance. This unique experience is one of the many building blocks in the creation of a new dance suite choreographed by Artistic Director Samuel Cortez entitled Los Californios: Tales of Alta California which will debut in Los Lupeños’ annual fall concert.

This Residency was sponsored by generous grant support from the Hewlett Foundation.