Denver children's mariachi prepares for Hispanic Heritage Month performance

• They're mostly classic Mexican tunes like "Cielito Lindo" that the children play during almost 30 performances throughout the academic year.

By the numbers: The group includes a beginner, intermediate and advanced ensemble.

• Children between third and eighth grade can join the bands, and musical experience isn't required — though a willingness to learn an instrument and sing is, Linan tells us.

State of play: The program celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, and counts more than 300 alums since launching at the school, Linan says.

• The experience provides children, especially Latino students, an opportunity to learn about their culture and share it with the public with their traditional charro suits and music.

What they're saying: "They feel proud because they're promoting a part of their culture, which is a part of them," Linan tells us.

What's next: The Mariachi Juvenil de Bryant Webster will perform Friday afternoon at Northfield High School for a Hispanic Heritage Month pep rally.