Throughout its 30 year history, players of the Holy Cross/Immaculate Heart of Mary Marimba Ensemble have formed a family around the experience of playing and performing with the marimba, a percussion instrument used to provide music and story for many, many groups of people, including those who have gathered for worship in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. 

At first, the group, ages 12-21, accompanied a children’s choir and worship services at Immaculate Heart of Mary, then Holy Cross, B y 1991 the players expanded to perform for special events throughout the City of Chicago, including wedding and Quinceañera receptions, City of Chicago events, museums, festivals and schools.  As the group expanded and grew in their repertoire they eventually set out for summer trips to Washington DC, Florida, New Mexico and beyond.  

All the time together has created an alumni who have continued to grow together and who continue to tell the story of their marimba “family.”  Many stay in contact and support the new marimba players. They have also developed an interest in supporting new players, and the vision for their education and opportunity for development.  

The alumni are now working to create a “Marimba Institute” committed to maintaining the tradition of teaching, supporting and encouraging Back of the Yards neighborhood young people in their music and dreams. The alumni will actively fund raise for the needs of marimba players, and invite you to be a part of their vision to support young people.

Thank you!

Amigos de La Marimba