Uniting Voices Chicago (formerly known as Chicago Children’s Choir) is launching its exciting 2023-24 season with “Canto Latino: Creando Mole.” This event is a vibrant celebration of Mexican music, dance, cuisine, and history and is set to take place at Harrison Park (1824 S. Wood St.) on Saturday, September 30, 2023, from 3 pm to 6 pm, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

At “Canto Latino: Creando Mole,” the talented ensembles of Uniting Voices will perform beloved Mexican classics that are sure to captivate the audience and get everyone dancing. The event will be hosted by the renowned Uniting Voices alum and Chicago Reader’s Best Hip-Hop Artist of 2022, Pinqy Ring. The lineup includes exciting collaborations with Mariachi Perla de Mexico, Jarochicanos, and the graceful dancers of Ballet Folklorico de Chicago. Uniting Voices singers, adorned in vibrant attire, will perform traditional Mexican dances that will transport you to the heart of Mexico. The performances will showcase singers from Uniting Voices’ programs, which offer citywide and neighborhood-based choral programs across 12 neighborhoods in the city, including Pilsen/Little Village, Gage Park, Humboldt Park, and more.

Additionally, the event will feature a special performance by Voice of Chicago, Uniting Voices’ most advanced ensemble, some of whom had the incredible opportunity to perform alongside Colombian superstar Karol G during her historic set at Lollapalooza in August. This family-friendly event is free to attend and will also offer kids’ activities and delectable food vendors, including the mouthwatering Mexican specialty, mole.

Canto Latino is an annual tradition for Uniting Voices, celebrating the rich tapestry of Latine cultures found in communities throughout the city. Each year, Canto Latino focuses on the cultural traditions of a specific country, and this year’s theme, “Creando Mole,” shines a spotlight on a quintessential Mexican culinary masterpiece. Mole is a dish that is both cherished and personalized by each individual who prepares it, making it a perfect symbol of identity and resilience. It serves as an inspiring reflection of Mexican culture and its connection to musical expression, as beautifully expressed by Uniting Voices Chicago’s conductor and co-creator of the Canto Latino experience, Magdalena Delgado.

Founded in 1956 during the Civil Rights Movement, Uniting Voices Chicago has been a driving force in empowering and uniting youth from diverse backgrounds through the universal language of music. The organization offers dynamic school- and community-based programs to students in 80 schools and supports 12 neighborhood choirs, with 80 percent of students benefiting from free instruction. Beyond honing exceptional musical skills, students explore the history and social significance of music from cultures worldwide. In preparation for “Canto Latino: Creando Mole,” Uniting Voices students have delved into a musical curriculum that delves into the diverse traditions, histories, and identities of the Mexican people across various regions.

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