Las Azaleas Selected for Smithsonian & Music Unbound Cultural Exchange in Kazakhstan

We are thrilled to share some incredible news! Members of Las Azaleas—including founder Diana Olivares—have been selected to participate in a landmark international cultural exchange in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Co-sponsored by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the Southwest Folklife Alliance, and Music Unbound (as part of the Heritage in Motion initiative), this 10-day tour bridges the sister cities of Tucson, Arizona, and Almaty.

As a Latina-led ensemble dedicated to honoring pioneering women in mariachi and bolero, Las Azaleas will represent the rich heritage of Southwestern Latin music on a global stage. During the exchange, the group will collaborate with traditional Kazakh artists, share cross-cultural musical traditions, and perform alongside international and local ensembles.

What This Means for Our Community:

• Global Representation: Showcasing Latina folk and mariachi music to international audiences.

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Building lasting artistic connections between Tucson and Almaty music-bearers.

Thank you to our dedicated listeners and community for making this journey possible.

Press Release: https://folklife.si.edu/news-and-events/music-unbound-exchange