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MEMORIAL PARK 900 N. Arroyo Blvd. Los Fresnos, Texas

Los Fresnos Welcomes You!

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |1

L O S

F R E S N O S ,

T E X A S

C O N J U N T O F E S T I VA L

BEST in “Live” Texas Mexican Conjunto Music since

October 29, 1991. Longest Running Conjunto Festival in the RGV and is one of two Conjunto Music festivals in the nation.

Communities Coming Together To Dance

Featuring Over 15 Of The Best Conjunto Bands In Texas

NMCAC Mission

Community and Family Fun For All Ages

Dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and development of the rich cultural heritage of the Mexican American Community.

Come Experience Our South Texas Hospitality!

Like us on Facebook

40| 2024 | 31st Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival more information | www.narcisomartinezcac.org 2| 2026| For 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto(956)367-0335 Festival

THANK YOU SPONSORS

We are forever grateful for your continued support! 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 Supporters A & V Lopez Super Carniceria

Julia's Restaurant

Rudy Garza-Juarez Family

Blanquita's Restaurant - San Benito

L & F Distributors

San Benito News

Casa de Proyecto Libertad

Los Fresnos CISD

CC Printing (Formerly Los Fresnos News)

Los Fresnos City

Sandra R. Hamrick, Realtor

Country Inn & Suites Radisson - Hgn

Los Fresnos CDC

Cross Country Mortgage - Houston

Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce

Culligan Water - San Benito

Los Fresnos Inn & Suites

Dairy Queen - Los Fresnos

Los Fresnos Rodeo

Southern Commercial RE Group

David Armendariz, Agent, State Farm

Lucky Shot Saloon - San Benito

Squeezebox Entertainment

Discount Granite Fabricators, LLC

M & G Industrial Supplies

Taqueria El Cien - Los Fresnos

Dr. & Mrs. Ramón De León

Mariaelena Villarreal Photography

Tere Villarreal Legacy, Songwriter

El Gallito Mexican Restaurant

Mark Becerra, Realtor KWLRGV

Festival of Texas Fiddling 12th Annual

Medicine Shoppe (The)

Southern Rose Coffee - San Benito

First Community Bank

Montalvo Dental Esthetics - San Benito

Golden Palms - Harlingen

Noble Texas Builders, LLC

Grace's Hidden Gems & Co. San Benito

Palmdale RV Park - Los Fresnos

Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center - SA

Paul Gonzales Insurance

V.I.P. Realty - San Benito

Hohner - Gilberto Reyes, Jr.

Poppin' Claw by Pop-A-Charm

Valley Aesthetics Medical SPA

Hurricane Fence Company

Reef Industries, Inc.- San Benito

Vinson's Training School

J & J Shack by Jessie Ruedas

RG Lowrider Brims - Harlingen

Whiskey Barrel (The) - Los Fresnos

Johnny Hernandez - Sound Engineer

Ricardo Madrigal - Matanza 1915

Smooth Skin Solutions - Los Fresnos South Texas Conjunto Association South Texas Human Rights Center

Thomae-Garza Funeral Home Trinity Funeral Homes Twists & Tails - San Benito

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |3

PUBLISHER: The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center P.O. Box 471, San Benito, TX 78586 Phone: 956.367.0335 Email: nrogelio@hushmail.com DIRECTOR: Rogelio T. Nuñez GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION: CC Printing ADVERTISING SALES: Blanca Davis NMCAC BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Dr. Ramón De León Rogelio T. Nuñez Jonathan T. Jones FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS: Basilio “Chilo” Garcia Blanca Davis Cosme Serda Eliseo “Cheto” Villarreal Noelia Perez & Friends Dr. Ramón De León Rogelio T. Nuñez Soledad Adelita Nuñez Yolanda Lopez To advertise contact: bdadsales@gmail.com www.narcisomartinezcac.org

Welcome Roberto Baez, City Manager.

It’s Conjunto Time in the 956! Celebrating the 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

he 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival will feature 15 bands from across Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley, Kingsville, Corpus Christi, Houston, San Antonio, and Eagle Pass. This year’s lineup includes two octogenarian musicians who continue to thrive in their musical careers: Hector Barron of Las Fantasmas from Mercedes, Texas and Santiago Jimenez Jr. y Su Conjunto from San Antonio, Texas. I have felt especially emotional this year remembering two great Conjunto artists who have passed on: Don Ramiro Cavazos, who was 99, and Bobby Naranjo, who was 71. I was fortunate to meet Ramiro many times. He was a featured artist at the Conjunto Festival, at the Center’s Third Thursday Conjunto nights, and during a special presentation with his grandson Allan at the re-release of Chris Strachwitz’s documentary Chulas Fronteras at Cine El Rey in McAllen. Although I never personally met Bobby Naranjo, his accordion skills were incredible. He was one of the few musicians who mastered the chromatic accordion, and his collaboration with Los Chachos de Cha Cha Jimenez remains a major moment in the Conjunto world. While living in Kingsville and Austin, I had the opportunity to see Bobby and Los Chachos perform, and their music continues to be embedded in my soul. Since the Center was founded on October 29, 1991, I have been privileged to meet many Conjunto musicians who continue to keep this tradition alive. Since 2023, I have immersed myself every Saturday in live Conjunto music at the Lucky Shot in San Benito, Texas. This Saturday moment keeps me grounded as to the meaning of this music and those in attendance who come to dance and share a bit from their lives. We are grateful to the City of Los Fresnos, Texas, for giving the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center a home for our Conjunto Festival since 2018. Mark Milum, who retired as city manager of Los Fresnos in July 2026 after 22 years of service, gave us the opportunity to bring the festival to Los Fresnos and was very supportive of our work. With Roberto Baez now serving as city manager, the transition has been smooth, and we look forward to many more festivals in Los Fresnos. There are too many people to name who have had a hand in our success. We are grateful for the unsung heroes who sell rafﬂe tickets to help cover festival costs, work the beer booth, build the lineup, organize the colorful keepsake magazine, contribute artwork for the T-shirts, and help bring the event to life. We are also grateful to the fans who come from near and far year after year to enjoy the music, rekindle friendships, and make new ones; to the musicians who share their gifts; and to the sound engineers, announcers, city staff and others who make the festival possible. Our success is the result of collaborative work. We are simply grateful to continue presenting this unique musical event—about us, by us, and for us. This is our music: an American genre with deep Mexican American history and tradition. Thank you to everyone. We look forward to having a great time.

Looking forward to our collaboration with the City of Los Fresnos! Rogelio T. Nuñez Director/NMCAC 4| 2026| 2026 |33rd 33rdAnnual AnnualNarciso NarcisoMartinez MartinezConjunto ConjuntoFestival Festival 4|

With gratitude, Rogelio T. Nuñez, Director

www.cityoﬂosfresnos.com 520 East Ocean Boulevard Los Fresnos, TX 78566 (956)233-5768

Welcome Conjunto Fans to the City of Los Fresnos!

Welcome to Los Fresnos - A Community with Opportunity

ounded in 1915, Los Fresnos has grown from its early settler roots into a thriving and family friendly community. Our quality of life continues to attract families, businesses, and nature lovers alike.

Located in the heart of Cameron County, Los Fresnos offers a welcoming environment supported by an “A”-rated school district, a strong sense of community, and a commitment to safe living with a dedicated Police Department and EMS & Fire services. Community spirit comes alive through signature events like the Los Fresnos Rodeo, Cowboy Cook-Off, Conjunto Festival, and Earth Day Celebration, along with seasonal, family-friendly festivals held throughout the year. Outdoor and recreational opportunities help define the Los Fresnos experience. From the scenic Los Fresnos Nature Park to our reputation as a birding destination in South Texas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Unique attractions like Fragile Planet Wildlife Park, Bonita Flats Farm & Vineyard, and Bobz World offer memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike. Families stay active and connected through youth programs including Little League Baseball, Falcon Soccer League, and the Los Fresnos Educational & Recreation Club.

520 East Ocean Boulevard Los Fresnos, Texas 78566 (956)233-4488 http://www.losfresnoschamber.com oﬃce@losfresnoschamber.com

2026 FESTIVALS & EVENTS The Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce is organized to promote and assist businesses in our market area. We are committed to seek and implement all possible ways to promote, announce, and advertise the business interests of our members. The Chamber also promotes tourism and civic, social, and cultural events to enhance the welfare and prosperity of our community. Email blasts, Facebook, X, Instagram and website posts are a source of business networking, and also inform the community of forthcoming events and activities.

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |5

Table of

A word from the Mayor

CONTENTS

he Los Fresnos City Mayor welcomes the 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival. We are honored to have this event featuring 15 of the best conjunto bands in the State of Texas for all to enjoy during these two nights of music and safe family entertainment. The City of Los Fresnos welcomes all who want to be a part of this memorable celebration and encourages you to visit our local businesses to enjoy great food and a comfortable stay while discovering what this great city has to offer.

3rd - Thank You 2025 Sponsors 4th - Welcome letter by Rogelio T. Nuñez 5th - Welcome to the City of Los Fresnos 6th - A Word from Our Council by Mayor Alejandro Flores 7th - Conjunto Band Lineup 8th - NMCAC Mission Statement 8th - Thank You, Mark Milum 9th - Conjunto Trail 11th - Narciso Martinez Burial Site San Benito 15th - Adiós Don Ramiro Cavazos 16th - Los Fresnos Conjunto Halcon 16th - Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto 19th - Bullock Texas State Museum - NMCAC Exhibit 20th - Appreciation Message Dr. & Mrs. Ramón De León 25th - Gilberto Reyes - Hohner 27th - Space-Time Continuum of the Festival by Dan Margolies 29th - "El Gallista" Joe Lopez 31st - Adan Lomas y Conjunto Bernal 32nd - "El Chief de San Antonio" by Dan Margolies 35th - Chuy Villegas Remembered 36th - Narciso Martinez Remembered

33rd Annual Conjunto Festival

Publication layout, production, and development of posters and ﬂyers by:

CC PRINTING LOCAL PRINT. LOCAL VOICES. LOCAL IMPACT.

TACO TUESDAY! TODOS LOS MARTES DE 5PM A 8PM

2x1 BISTEC TACOS* *Por pieza o por orden de tacos *Solo tacos de Bistec *SOLO DINE-IN 6| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

33rd Annual

Conjunto Festival OCTOBER 2-3, 2026

$10 per day Memorial Park | 900 N. Arroyo Blvd. | Los Fresnos FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 | Gate Opens at 3:00 P.M. 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

Santiago Garza y La Naturaleza Los Badd Boyz Del Valle Mando y La Venganza Ruben Vela Jr. y Los Muchachos Los Fantasmas Del Valle Los Tellez Da Krazy Pimpz

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 | Gate Opens at 2:00 P.M. 4:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

Los Fresnos High School / Elementary Conjuntos Rigo Rodríguez y Conjunto Contrabando David Flores y Los Tremendos Alacranes Los Angeles Del Sur Santiago Jimenez Jr. y Su Conjunto Lázaro Pérez y So Conjunto Los Cucuys de Rodney Rodríguez The Delta Boyz

No outside food, drinks, or coolers permitted. Lawn chairs are allowed.

Wishing you safe travels! Thank you for joining us! We look forward to seeing you again in 2027! 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |7

he Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center is an organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion and development of the rich cultural heritage of the Mexican American community which includes visual arts, music, theater, dance and literary works. Narciso Martinez was born on October 29, 1911 in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico and lived most of his life in La Paloma, Texas, passing away on June 5, 1992. The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center was named in his honor as the result of his philosophy of being a proud man of Mexican ancestry and working class origins, a man of the people who over the years gave of himself and his musical talents so that others could enjoy his contributions: a man who was willing to share his rich musical and Texas-Mexcian border experience.

Thank You For Beleiving in Us! -The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center

CONGRATS ON BULLOCK MUSEUM SELECTION! CELEBRATING THE 33 RD ANNUAL

NARCISO MARTINEZ

8| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

CONJUNTO FESTIVAL

The 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival One of two festivals in Texas, that leaves a conjunto trail celebrating history, tradition, and culture. Houston

San Antonio Jourdanton Eagle Pass

Kingsville

Rio Grande City

Gregory Corpus Christi

McAllen

Santaa Rosa Sant Los Fresnos Edcouch Mercedes La Feria

Fans from all around the country come together at conjunto festivals sharing common interests, beliefs, values, and reconnecting with friends.

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |9

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“DID YOU KNOW...” Narciso Martinez was born on October 29, 1911 in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico and lived most of his life in La Paloma, Texas. He passed away on June 5, 1992 and was laid to rest at Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito, Texas. His wife, Eduvina was buried next to her late husband, Narciso, in 1996.

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33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |11

THURSDAY-SUNDAY

FEBRUARY 18th-21st | 2027

he late, Hall of Fame Award-Winning Songwriter, Tere Villarreal (1937-2023) inspired many, especially women. Leaving behind well over 200 compositions, many of her songs are “boleros”— considered bittersweet, betrayed, and most of them with a romantic twist. To date she has 30 recordings by various Tejano/Conjunto/ Regional Mexican Artists.

To name a few: “Primero Se Seca El Mar” - Los Dos Gilbertos “Yo Se Que Volveras” - Los Donneños de Ramiro Cavazos “Maldita Tristeza” - Ruben Vela Jr. y Los Muchachos “Devuelveme La Vida” - Rubén De La Cruz y Su Conjunto “Si Te Vas” - Ruben De La Cruz y Su Conjunto con Ruben Garza “Amor Sincero” - Ruben De La Cruz y Su Conjunto con Ruben Garza “Me Enamore de Ti” - Los Dos Del Norte de Beto Espinoza “Ando de Rienda Suelta” - Los Dos Del Norte de Beto Espinoza “Donde Andaras” - “De Ti No Queda Nada” Juan Antonio el Domador “No Me Digas Que No” (First release 1976) - Laura Mariscal, YouTube “Si Tu Me Quisieras” - Ruben Garza y La Nueva Era “Yo No Puedo Olvidarte” - Ruben Garza y La Nueva Era “Amor Sincero” - Ruben De La Cruz y su Conjunto con Ruben Garza “Homenaje A Ruben Vela” - Pending / Teresa Villarreal & Pedro Reyna, Co-writers Thank you to all who continue to support Tere’s music.

12| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

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CC PRINTING Welcome to Los Fresnos and the

33rd Annual Conjunto Festival!

Victor Moreno

Publication Layout and Production

October 2-3, 2026 tural Arts Center Narciso Martinez Cul es You! Los Fresnos Welcom 30th Annual

STIVAL CONJUNTO6-7,FE 2023 October

(956) 264-7720

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MEMORIAL PARK , 900 N. Arroyo Blvd. 78566 Los Fresnos, Texas

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14| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

2025

A Dios Don Ramiro Cavazos

on Ramiro Cavazos passed away on July 2, 2026, at the age of 99. A pioneering bajo sexto player, Cavazos helped define the sound of Norteño and Texas Mexican conjunto music and left an enduring mark on musical traditions in Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley. In the 1940s, Cavazos joined accordionist Mario Montes to form the acclaimed conjunto Los Donneños. The group made its first recordings for Discos Falcón in McAllen, Texas, in 1947 and soon became one of the first conjuntos to achieve major success on both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border. Across his long career, Cavazos performed for audiences throughout Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, and the United States. He also worked with the celebrated Los Alegres de Terán and recorded with them on the Orfeo label. His contributions extended beyond the stage and recording studio. Cavazos appeared in five Mexican films, including productions with Lalo González, known as “El Piporro,” and he is featured with Narciso Martínez in the documentary Chulas Fronteras. In 2006, Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie Records and the Frontera Collection issued Los Donneños: Grabaciones Originales/Historic First Recordings, 1945–1954, a retrospective album that brought renewed attention to the group’s early recordings. The collection is featured in Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, helping preserve Cavazos’s legacy for future generations. 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |15

Conjunto Halcón……Preserving Tradition Through Conjunto Music Founded in 2012 by Juan Longoria Jr. at Los Fresnos High School in Los Fresnos, Texas. Conjunto Halcón gives students the opportunity to learn and perform conjunto music while earning ﬁne arts credit. The program helps preserve a musical tradition that has long been passed down through families and communities, while also giving students a meaningful way to connect with their cultural heritage. Under Mr. Longoria’s direction, Conjunto Halcón has performed at showcase events throughout Texas and has earned recognition from organizations including Texas Folklife, the South Texas Conjunto Association, the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, and the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival. Through the conjunto program, students develop both musical and professional skills that prepare them for performances, public events, and future opportunities. Throughout the school year, Conjunto Halcón performs at major festivals and community events, including the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival, the City of Brownsville Sombrero Festival, the Los Fresnos Rodeo, and the San Antonio Tejano Conjunto Festival. Students have also participated in master workshops with numerous musical artists. The program has been featured in Texas Monthly, Texas Highways, National Public Radio, and the popular YouTube show “Jueves con Cadena,” including a professional live studio recording and workshop in Houston, Texas. The program has been recognized as “The Role Model of High School Conjunto Music” by Juan Tejada, founder of the San Antonio Tejano Conjunto Festival. Today, Conjunto Halcón continues to make a lasting impact across the community and the state as students proudly carry forward the rich musical tradition of conjunto music.

Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto: Cultivating the Future of Conjunto Music The Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto (LFE Conjunto) continues to serve as a remarkable example of how young students can engage with, preserve, and celebrate the rich tradition of conjunto music. The group is composed of dedicated 4th and 5th graders, ages 9 to 10, who demonstrate exceptional musical growth and enthusiasm. These young musicians consistently impress audiences with their skill and passion. While high school conjunto programs are steadily growing, elementary-level groups remain rare, making LFE Conjunto a truly special and inspiring part of the conjunto community. Led by accomplished musician, producer, author and dedicated educator Mr. Santiago Castillo, the Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto has gained recognition as a standout youth ensemble. At LFE, students receive a strong foundation in music through their general music classroom, where they learn the fundamentals of music literacy and performance. They are also oﬀered opportunities to pursue higher music education through specialized classes in accordion, ukulele, choir, guitar, and percussion. Most students enter the conjunto program with no prior musical experience, having only received instruction through their general music classes, yet in just a few months, they are able to play traditional conjunto instruments such as the diatonic accordion, bajo quinto, bass, and drums. Their rapid progress is a testament to their dedication and to Mr. Castillo’s engaging, hands-on teaching style, which makes conjunto music both accessible and inspiring for young learners. The Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto continues to earn widespread recognition across South Texas for its exceptional performances and dedication to preserving conjunto music. This talented group has been featured at major events, including a live performance on the Hermes Music Float during the 2024 McAllen Holiday Parade, and a spotlight performance on Brownsville’s 2025 Sombrero Festival. They were honored to perform at the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival in October 2025 in Los Fresnos, TX., and in May took the stage at the 2025 Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, TX. In addition to these prestigious invitations, the group received a superior rating at the “La Cultura Vive” Texas Best Conjunto Competition. For over 15 years, Mr. Santiago Castillo has been a leader in conjunto education, introducing young students to the tradition and keeping the music alive. Castillo is currently pursuing a master’s degree in music education and recently published the ﬁrst edition of his Quick and Easy Accordion Book, a beginner-friendly teaching guide. His success in teaching elementary-aged musicians has earned him widespread respect in the conjunto community. The Los Fresnos Elementary Conjunto is not just making music, they’re making history, ensuring that the heart and soul of conjunto music will continue to thrive.

16| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

wishing you a happy and safe halloween!

From One ‘Spirited’ Family to Another - Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center -

Brownsville • Harlingen Los Fresnos • McAllen Raymondville • San Benito South Padre Island Member FDIC

www.fcbtx.com

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |17

ALWAYS BREWED FOR A

CLEAN CRISP TASTE

18| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

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he 2025 Narciso Martinez Annual Conjunto Festival was 1 of 36 Texas Festivals in exhibition at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, Texas, from April 25 to September 27, 2026. Congratulations to the organization, the entire volunteer staff, the loyal conjunto fans, the year-round supporters, and the publication advertisers. This could not have been accomplished without them.

K L PAR ORIA Blvd., MEM yo . Arro 566 900 N , Texas 78 snos os Fre

As noted by the Bullock Texas State History Museum, local festivals reveal a lot about a community, their collective identity, what is important to them, and what industries, traditions, and cultures are prevalent. They show the character of Texas, and in turn, the character of America. 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |19

n behalf of The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center, my wife and I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the City of Los Fresnos, the Community Development Corporation, and the Chamber of Commerce for hosting, once again, our 33rd Annual Conjunto Festival. We look forward to continuing to see our supportive conjunto fans from far and near. We invite all the residents of the city of Los Fresnos and the surrounding cities and townships to be a part of this memorable and exciting celebration of music indigenous to our communities. For those who have not had an opportunity to visit a conjunto festival, we encourage you to do so, this year. Best wishes for a safe and healthy rest of the year and as we move forward into 2027! Sincerely with warmest regards, Dr. Ramón De León (Board Chair) & Mrs. Yolanda De León The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center

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33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |23

Mariaelena Villarreal

Photographer & Journalist Conjunto, Tejano, Norteño, and Regional Mexican music Sound Engineer with High Voltage Sound. Mr. Hernandez prepares and details the audio equipment Setup and sound effects achieving high quality sound at our conjunto festivals. Also special thanks to Marisela for her ongoing support!

Rogelio T. Nuñez Director

Ofﬁcial Photographer for Hohner Accordions

Coordinator for the Tejano Conjunto Festival En San Antonio

(956) 650-8022

24| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

Street Talk Magazine Photojournalist

Mariaelenav__

Tejano Nation Photojournalist

GILBERT REYES Jr.

Your continued support of our Center does not go unnoticed. Once again, thank you for your generous support of the NMCAC annual conjunto festivals. Our devoted Conjunto fans also deeply appreciate your continued support to the conjunto music industry. From all of us, “Mil gracias!” Best regards, The Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |25

Photos by B

. Davis

Memorial Park | Los Fresnos, TX | October 2-3, 2026

26| 2026| 2026 |33rd 33rdAnnual AnnualNarciso NarcisoMartinez MartinezConjunto ConjuntoFestival Festival

Space-Time Continuum of the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival Dan Margolies

he first year I came to the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival sixteen years ago, someone I met for the first time was surprised I had travelled all the way to the RGV from where I lived at the time (Virginia) just for this festival. “You came all the way here for this?” is how it was phrased. I was actually kind of shocked by the question, which had never occurred to me to even consider.Of course I came all the way here! I finally made it! What —and where—else? I’d been focusing on the opposite question of why it took me to finally get here. And now I endure the long annual wait to return each year, like waiting for a holiday. An essential time on the calendar, permanently blocked off. Special, unique, and necessary. Ultimately, being at the Festival this weekend creates something of a totalizing spacetime experience for the conjunto community, a bringing-together sanctuary for what matters in life amidst all the other hullaballoo fracturing things. Music, dance, community, bring it on! Narciso highlights the success of efforts to strengthen sustainable communities of music making in an era filled with distraction, fracture, and a widespread, corrosive dissolution of cultural singularity and continuity. Conjunto music is unique to this place and culture and among the core vernacular traditions of all American musics, but it is often not given proper recognition. In highlighting the depth of the style, showcasing the range of performers, and of course always emphasizing dancing, this Festival has, for decades, been more than just another event or chance to hear conjunto music. It has played a key role both in the Valley and throughout Texas for supporting conjunto culture and conjunto musicians. It has helped ensure that conjunto music and culture flourishes within a rising generation still connected to history, tradition, and culture without siphoning their innovative energy as the music continues to evolve. The Festival highlights tradition and innovation in intentional and sustainable ways to remind us of some of the key strengths of conjunto culture. The music has always remained grounded in community dances and gatherings. Over the years the Festival has always showcased both the rapidly disappearing innovators and tradition bearers in the music. Narciso engages and highlights the tradition, history, and social purposes of conjunto music in ways which help clarify how critical a wide cultural ecosystem is for the survival of traditional music nowadays. Yes, it’s also an awesome party. No reason to undercut that when we’re thinking about necessary things! We need and love the heart of the festival as a place to dance, listen, drink some cold beer, hang with friends. There is a kind of sustenance and recharge you get in this festival space which is different than you get in a dance hall or elsewhere. But that’s just part of the Festival’s unique contributions that make it an essential national treasure. 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |27

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Adán Lomas and El Conjunto Bernal

dán Lomas, born December 17, 1937, was the drummer for El Conjunto Bernal, Bernal the influential Tejano conjunto band led by Paulino and Eloy Bernal. He joined the original lineup in 1952 at the age of 15, when the group began performing together, including an early dance near Premont, Texas. The successful debut helped launch the band’s career. As drummer, Lomas provided the rhythmic foundation that shaped Conjunto Bernal’s early sound. The group soon gained attention in towns such as Falfurrias and Alice before recording for Ideal Records under Armando Marroquín. Conjunto Bernal later became one of Texas’ most influential conjunto bands, known for songs such as Mi Único Camino and Sentimiento y Rencor. Though Paulino and Eloy became the group’s central figures, Lomas’ drumming remained key to its early identity and style.

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Monday - Friday 6:30 am - 3:00 pm Saturday - Sunday 6:30 am - 2:30 pm 190 N. Williams Rd. San Benito, TX. BlanquitasSanBenito

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33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |31

Santiago Jiménez Jr., “El Chief de San Antonio” Dan Margolies

antiago Jiménez Jr. is a living legend of Conjunto music who has achieved international acclaim for his decidedly old school, traditional style of playing and singing. Since he became a professional musician as a teenager, Santiago has sustained the style pioneered by his father, Conjunto innovator Don Santiago Jiménez, Sr. Like his father, Santiago plays a two row Hohner accordion and emphasizes traditional conjunto songs and techniques. Santiago grew up in a musical family on the West Side of San Antonio and continues to live there today. All of his other brothers played in addition to their famous father, though only one professionally. Santiago’s brother Flaco became a global star by bringing his unique conjunto style to a crossover global audience when he recorded with country and rock musicians as well as with his own conjuntos and with hit bands such as the Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven. Santiago and Flaco recorded together as teenagers on a Lira LP called “El Rey y El Principe De La Musica Norteña.” Don Santiago appeared with Santiago, Jr. and Flaco at the ﬁrst Tejano Conjunto Festival en San Antonio, and Santiago continues to appear there each year. Photo by B. Davis Santiago has consistently hewed to Conjunto tradition. He has written many of the more than 700 songs he has recorded and also continues to play his father’s well-loved songs and classic original polkas such as “Viva Seguin.” Santiago’s conjuntos often feature a traditional line up of bajo sexto and tololoche, and he has played and recorded with numerous top musicians such as Lydia Mendoza, Juan Viesca, Ramon ‘Rabbit’ Sanchez, Juve Sanchez, Larry Tenerias, and Ramon Gutierrez, among many others. Santiago is also accomplished on the bajo sexto and bass, and has recorded albums on those instruments with Felipe Perez. Santiago has also recorded dozens of his own albums where he plays all of the instruments and sings all of the parts. Santiago has played music throughout Texas, all around the United States at major festivals, and extensively across Europe. He recorded dozens of 45s, LPs, and CDs for his own Chief Records, which he started in 1990. He recorded albums on classic San Antonio labels including Lira, Corona, Sombrero, Discos Grande, D.L.B., and Dina, independent labels like Watermelon, Del Corazón, Shotgun House, and Zarza Records, and on national labels like Arhoolie and Rounder records. He continues to release new recordings at age 82, including a new record on San Quilmas Records dedicated to his father and to Flaco titled “The Three Jimenez Legends Will Never be Forgotten.” Santiago is regularly recognized as a leading tradition bearer in Conjunto. He was inducted into the Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and his recordings have been nominated for three Grammys. In 2000, he was honored with a National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment for the Arts and in 2016 he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Obama in a ceremony in the White House. Santiago is dedicated to teaching new generations of accordionists his unique style and the music and songs of his father. He was the ﬁrst accordion instructor at the Conjunto Heritage Taller in San Antonio and teaches there today as well as at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. He continues to perform very widely across Texas and around in the country. In 2026, he played in Las Vegas at the Tejano Takeover, at the South Texas Sound Festival, the Tejano Conjunto Festival en San Antonio, and the 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival in Los Fresnos, Texas. 32| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

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Keepsake editions continue to highlight the tradition of conjunto music! “STAYING CALM AND MOVING FORWARD” (People often ask me what I do for work…)

“One of the most important things in life is to remain calm, stay positive, and love what you choose to do. Whether you work in an office, at home, or in outside sales, believe in yourself first.” —Blanca —Blanca Davis Blanca is a professional independent advertising sales representative with more than 15 years of experience promoting and developing advertising products in the area. She is passionate about building relationships with clients, connecting the dots—especially small businesses—understanding their needs, and guiding them toward marketing promotions that best fits “them.” Her previous work with banks and hospitals, along with her experience owning and operating a small gift shop in Harlingen, strengthened her skills in organization, leadership, and customer service. Blanca has supported several organizations and publications, including Beyond Arts Magazine, Los Fresnos News, La Feria News, CC Printing of Harlingen, Ortiz Productions, a Spanish television program in McAllen, RGV Tots n Tweens, the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame Museum in San Benito, Explore Harlingen Magazine and, The Narcisco Martinez Cultural Arts Center. Today, she is proud to continue her nine-year affiliation with The Narcisco Martinez Cultural Arts Center by volunteering at the annual conjunto festival in Los Fresnos and managing the center’s conjunto festival publications. She credits her mother, Tere Villarreal, a life-long supporter of conjunto music and songwriter, for encouraging her to affiliate with the NMCAC nine years ago and remains grateful to director Rogelio T. Nuñez and supporters for the opportunity. She also serves as a member of the Los Fresnos Chamber of Commerce, where she helps recruit local businesses in the market area to become chamber members. Building long-term trust, loyalty, and shared values with customers is her #1 goal.

Blanca Davis

33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |33

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His passion for conjunto music is missed. Six Year Anniversary 8/9/2020

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34| 2026| 33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival

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chuy villegas

Yolanda Lopez

Event Coordinator / Promoter Supporting Conjunto Music! Chuy Villegas, a renowned San Benito, Texas conjunto accordionist, strongly supported the idea of opening the Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts Center in 1991. His passion for conjunto music was clear throughout his career with Chuy Villegas y Su Conjunto, and he recorded more than 40 singles for Ideal Records. His recordings remain an important part of the Rio Grande Valley’s rich border music heritage.

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33rd Annual Narciso Martinez Conjunto Festival | 2026 |35

PhotoofofNarciso Narciso Martinez, Martinez, “El Photo “El Huracan HuracanDel DelValle” Valle” taken during a City of San Benito commissioners taken during a City of San Benito commissioners meeting where he was recognized for his work and meeting where he wasNarciso recognized for Cultural his workArts and for the opening of the Martinez forCenter the opening Cultural named of in the his Narciso honor onMartinez October 29, 1991, Arts 35 Center named in his honor on October 29, 1991, 35 years ago. - Rogelio T. Nuñez, Director years ago. - Rogelio T. Nuñez, Director