About iZCALLi
iZCALLi is a genre-bending rock band pushing the sonic envelope of conventional Latin sounds. Miguel Aviña (Lead Guitar/Vocals), Brenda Aviña (Bass) and Luiggy Ramírez (Drums) combine to create music for the relentless, the determined…the immigrant song. Inherently authentic and undeniably refreshing.
iZCALLi swigs its evolving sound from all wells of tradition, from Latin-tinged echoes to fuzz rock anthems saturated with rebellious spirit in English and in Español; creating the perfect molotov of nostalgia and euphoria, equal parts sweet and intoxicating. iZCALLi’s music ignites a sonic space to reconnect yourself with the present, to join what you’ve left behind with what you will recover, discover your heart, so you know you are home.
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About ArtistiCO
ArtistiCO was founded in 2019 by former principal soloists of the Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández. It started as a multi-faceted organization but had to close due to COVID-19. However, they quickly adapted and became a virtual platform, offering classes and performances online. Now, they have acquired their own studio in Denver and are dedicated to preserving and promoting Mexican Folklore through their dance academy and professional dance company.
The academy provides top-quality training that goes beyond dance techniques, focusing on cultural celebration and artistic expression. The professional company consists of highly experienced dancers trained in various dance forms. They also serve as cultural ambassadors for the Latinx community while pursuing other careers.
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Meet the Founders
Alfonso "Poncho" Meraza, the Founder and Artistic Director of ArtistiCO, was born in Mexico and has a background in Mexican Arts and Dance. He gained experience as a Principal Soloist with Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernández before moving to Denver in 2019. Alfonso's vision is to bring traditional folklore to life through innovative artistic expression that combines classic and contemporary ballet techniques with Latin dance.
Jose "Chepe" Rosales, the CEO of ArtistiCO, is a Denver native with a passion for performing arts and cultural advocacy. He has collaborated with prominent cultural leaders and organizations in Colorado to bring diverse programming to the city. Jose also has an impressive dance career as a Principal Soloist with Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernandez. His expertise extends beyond dance into business entrepreneurship, project management, nonprofit work, and producing events. Jose holds a master's degree in Development and Program Management from the University of Denver.
Together, Alfonso and Jose are creating a cultural revolution through ArtistiCO by combining their talents and passion for the arts.