It’s not every day that two Fresno musicians release a new CD on the prestigiousSmithsonian Folkways record label. But Agustin Lira and Patricia Wells aren’t your typical Fresno musicians.
In 2007 Lira was honored as a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment For the Arts. The co-founder of the group El Teatro Campesino, Lira was an important part of the United Farm Workers movement dating back to the 1960’s and has remained active in both music and local issues since then. ‘
Now he has a new album with the group Alma, titled “Songs Of Hope And Struggle.” Together with Patricia Wells and Ravi Knypstra these musicians tackle issues ranging from immigration to homelessness in Fresno.
Lira and Wells joined us at Valley Public Radio to talk about the album, and an event this weekend in Fresno that celebrates the CD’s release.
CD Release Celebration
Music by: Agustin Lira & Patricia Wellswith students of Generaciones Project and special guest
Merlinda Espinosa
Saturday June 25, 2016 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Alfonso Hernandez Youth Center
1515 Divisadero
Fresno, Ca. 93701
(559)485-8558
“Quihubo, Raza” by Agustín Lira and Alma from Songs of Struggle & Hope
