The sounds of Guatemala at Crafton Hills College

Publish Date: Oct. 8, 2026

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Crafton Hills College partnered with the Consulate of Guatemala to welcome musician Ricky Carranza for a Music Monday afternoon of marimba on September 28.

For many in attendance, it was their first time seeing and hearing a marimba, a percussion instrument made of tuned wooden bars that are struck with mallets to produce rich, warm melodic tones (Wikipedia).

Carranza performed traditional Guatemalan songs in cumbias, a traditional Latin American musical rhythm and folkdance style. He also included classic covers, such as “Have You Ever Seen the Rain,” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. A few people from the audience even danced to a couple of numbers.

Students and staff from Ethnic Studies, the Multicultural Center, the Music Department and the Music Club joined the celebration. Guests also had the chance to try traditional Guatemalan candies and pick up Hispanic Heritage Month stickers and pins to show cultural pride.

Carranza shared that it was a privilege to bring a part of his cultural heritage to Crafton and introduce students to a piece of Guatemalan culture through music.

Beyond the music and dancing, the event was an opportunity for community engagement and cultural connection. Experiences like this help celebrate the diversity of CHC’s campus, introduce students to different cultures and shine a spotlight on the rich heritage of Guatemala.