Loyola celebrates the magic of music and community at Una Noche de Encanto

The sounds of violins, guitars, and soaring vocals filled the Mundelein Center for Fine and Performing Arts on September 28 as students and professional musicians came together for Una Noche de Encanto / A Night of Encanto—a celebration of music, culture, and community at Loyola.   

The Division of Student Development and the Department of Fine and Performing Arts partnered with Encanto Arts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural musical experiences and opportunities in education, to bring its award-winning program to Loyola. 

“As a long-time fan of Encanto Arts, I am extremely proud and honored to have fostered this wonderful partnership,” said Keith Champagne, vice president for student development. “This has been a transformative experience for the Loyola community, providing us all with the invaluable opportunity to learn from and celebrate one another across cultures and languages through the power of music.” 

Blending musical traditions

Students in the music program participated in a week-long series of workshops, masterclasses, and rehearsals led by world-class musicians, culminating in a performance at the Mundelein Center for Fine and Performing Arts. 

“It was an unforgettable experience,” shared Kristian Chavez, a sophomore studying vocal performance with a minor in marketing. Chavez not only took the stage as a member of the University Chorale, but also had the chance to perform as a soloist. 

The program featured an exchange of musical traditions and genres, from the elegant arias of Puccini to the vibrant rhythms of bolero and cumbia. Students in the Loyola Symphony Orchestra, University Chorale, and University Singers performed alongside Encanto’s cadre of professional musicians as well as faculty and staff from the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. 

The performance was led by Maestro Miguel Ángel Alatorre, representing the Secretary of Education and Culture of the State of Colima, Mexico. Musicians included pianist Andrew Pang, soprano Jacqueline Medina Itzel Green, Justin Raffa, director of the Mid-Columbia Master Singers, and tenor Jose Iñiguez, founder of Encanto Arts. Ana Belaval, award-winning journalist and feature reporter on WGN Morning News, energized the crowd and narrated the performance as emcee. 

Celebrating cultural heritage  

Coinciding with Latine Heritage Month and Family Weekend, the sold-out concert brought together cultures and languages in a joyful celebration of community.  

“As a Latino, I was proud to see such a powerful celebration of Mexican culture through music. This project beautifully showcased the richness, emotion, and heritage of our traditions,” shared Chavez. “It’s reminded me of the importance of sharing my culture with the Loyola community and inspires me to continue doing so through what I love most: music.” 

For Encanto Arts co-founder Jose Iñiguez, the performance at Loyola carried a deeper meaning. 

“I couldn’t help but think of my father, who passed away two years ago this month. I am who I am because he risked everything to give my family and me a better life in the United States. I carry his sacrifice with me every time I perform. 

“I felt I was honoring not only him, but all immigrant fathers and mothers who give so much so their children can have a better chance to fulfill their potential. To see the audience connect with the music, and to feel the energy in that theatre, was something I will always carry with me. I’m truly grateful to Loyola for welcoming me so warmly and for giving Encanto Arts the chance to share this experience.” 

Learn more about Encanto Arts, the Division of Student Development, and the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.