Alamosa, Colorado – The echoes of generations resonate in the music of Ruben Dominguez and Rose Vialpando, two San Luis Valley artists who will share their deeply rooted traditions at Society Hall on Saturday, March 28. Their performance isn’t simply a concert. it’s a continuation of a cultural lineage stretching back through families and across the landscapes of Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. The Valley’s musical heritage, a blend of Spanish Colonial influences and the rhythms of ranch life, is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, and Dominguez and Vialpando stand at its forefront.
For both musicians, music wasn’t a choice, but an inheritance. It was woven into the fabric of family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday life. This isn’t a polished, commercially driven sound, but something far more intimate – a living archive of stories, struggles, and resilience. The preservation of this unique musical identity is increasingly important as cultural landscapes shift, and artists like Dominguez and Vialpando are recognized for their dedication to keeping these traditions alive. Understanding Society Hall’s role as a community hub is key to appreciating the significance of this performance.
Dominguez’s commitment to these traditions recently earned him the prestigious Premio Award in 2022, presented by Herman Martinez of Los Hilos Culturales. Los Hilos Culturales, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Upper Rio Grande Region, awards the Premio to artists across disciplines – painters, sculptors, dancers, musicians, and wood carvers – who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their craft. According to Los Hilos Culturales, the award recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of cultural preservation. Dominguez was notably one of the youngest recipients, a testament to his early and profound impact. He represents the third generation of his family to receive this honor, solidifying a legacy of artistic commitment.
A Family Legacy in Song
Vialpando’s journey to rediscovering and embracing her musical roots is a compelling story of self-discovery. Growing up immersed in the sounds of Spanish Colonial and Northern New Mexico – Southern Colorado music, she was profoundly influenced by her mother, uncles, and aunt. Family gatherings were filled with the strumming of guitars and the heartfelt lyrics of rancheras and corridos. Though, a period of distance from her family and the “cultura” led to a sense of incompleteness.
This feeling ultimately spurred a creative awakening. Vialpando found a catalyst for her return to music through her work as a counselor and social worker, helping women find their voices. Inspired by their journeys and her own, she composed and recorded “Hallando Mi Voz (Finding My Voice),” a CD that marked a turning point in her artistic path. While different in style from the traditional music of her upbringing, it was a crucial step in reclaiming her heritage. She then joined forces with her uncle Salomon Lopez, forming the duo Los Cancioneros del Valle, and released a two-volume CD, “Dos Voces – Dos Guitarras,” showcasing traditional rancheras, corridos, and valses.
Honoring a Lifelong Dedication
Vialpando’s contributions to preserving the musical traditions of the region were further recognized in 2017 when she received the Hilos Culturales Lifetime Achievement Award. This award acknowledged her dedication to safeguarding the Spanish colonial folk music of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. The award highlights the importance of passing down these traditions to future generations, ensuring that the stories and spirit of the Valley continue to be heard.
The music of Dominguez and Vialpando isn’t simply about preserving the past; it’s about breathing new life into it. They are not merely replicating tradition, but evolving it, infusing it with their own experiences and perspectives. This dynamic approach ensures that the music remains relevant and resonant for contemporary audiences. The San Luis Valley’s unique cultural landscape, shaped by its history and geography, provides a fertile ground for this artistic expression. The area’s isolation historically fostered a strong sense of community and a preservation of traditions, which continues to influence the music created there.
Event Details and Ticket Information
SHOW INFORMATION
WHO: Ruben Dominguez and Rose Vialpando
WHEN: Saturday, March 28, at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Society Hall, 400 Ross Ave., Alamosa
TICKETS: $20 and are available at the Green Spot at 711 State Ave. In Alamosa, or online at www.societyhall.org.
Tickets for the performance at Society Hall are $20 and can be purchased at The Green Spot in Alamosa or online through the Society Hall website. The event promises an evening of authentic music and a celebration of the San Luis Valley’s rich cultural heritage. The performance offers a rare opportunity to experience the power of music to connect generations and preserve a vital part of the region’s identity.
Looking ahead, the continued support of artists like Dominguez and Vialpando is crucial for ensuring the longevity of this musical tradition. The San Luis Valley’s cultural organizations, like Los Hilos Culturales, play a vital role in providing resources and recognition to these artists. The upcoming performance at Society Hall is not just a concert; it’s an investment in the future of a cultural legacy.
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