Mariachi Alma Juvenil (MAJ) is a program of Planet Orchestra in Lawndale, California. MAJ is a non-profit after school community program that provides mariachi music education to children and youth between the ages of 7-18. The classes are open to all students from surrounding cities who meet the age qualifications. MAJ began in 2011 to provide mariachi instruction to the Hispanic community to increase cultural awareness and provide students an opportunity to build on their cultural traditions. Our program exists because of local fundraising events, community donations, parents, and the help of City of Lawndale. The group performs at various types of community, private and church events. MAJ is looking to continue to expand and be able to provide mariachi music classes in other surrounding cities.

MAJ's mission is to eliminate barriers to music education for youth. We seek to enrich children's inner lives by helping them gain access to and experience the joy of making music in an ensemble. During group lessons and rehearsals, students have the opportunity to gradually learn the skills required to play a musical instrument, read music, connect with other children, follow a conductor and perform in an ensemble. Along with learning music, students learn about Mexican culture and history through classic songs dating back to the Mexican Revolution.

As MAJ continues to grow and mature, we look to make a positive difference in our community along with keeping mariachi music alive for generations to come.