New Mexico Historic Sites Host Fourth Virtual "Our Fair New Mexico" Concert Featuring Marlon Magdalena 

April 29th, 2020

The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), in partnership with state museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions, is excited to continue its weekly virtual concert series with musicians living in New Mexico. 

As the divisions of DCA continue to operate online during temporary closures, the Department is pleased to bring the musical sounds of New Mexico through social media. 

The fourth concert of "Our Fair New Mexico" will feature Native American flute artist, educator, and performer Marlon Magdalena of Jemez Pueblo. Hosted by New Mexico Historic Sites in conjunction with Jemez Historic Site, watch the concert on the Historic Sites Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/NewMexicoHistoricSites/ - at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 1. 

Magdalena is known for his exceptional artistry of North American flutes. He discovered his passion for flutes in 2007 at a local powwow and has been crafting and playing them ever since. 

Magdalena was introduced to a new world of music that he never knew existed. Through this discovery, he was able to learn more about his own culture and heritage. Magdalena’s life is centered on his family and community of Jemez Pueblo. This is where Magdalena discovered aspects of who he is, all while continuing to learn more about his passion for flutes. 

"When I perform I try to present myself in the most respectful way that I can," said Magdalena. "I dress how a traditional Jemez Man would for our special occasions because that is who I am representing. I also represent the Flute Spirit. In Jemez, we say that if you are performing in the plaza, or at other places, you are performing not only as yourself, but as the spirits you are dancing, drumming, or singing for. I sing through the flute, I give the Flute Spirit a voice with my breath, my heart, and my mind."

Magdalena is also the Instructional Coordinator at the Jemez Historic Site, educating the public about his Jemez culture through presentations throughout the year.  

You can listen to Marlon Magdalena’s music as well as learn more about him and his flutes on his website. 

What: Our Fair New Mexico – A Virtual Concert Series presented by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs in collaboration with New Mexico Historic Sites and Jemez Historic Site 

Who: Marlon Magdalena 

When: Friday, May 1, 7 p.m. (MDT)

Where: New Mexico Historic Sites Facebook Page and other DCA-affiliated Facebook pages