(This article was written by Beth Marie Cantu Ensign and was featured in the December 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)
The Harlingen Concert Association (HCA) has stood as a cultural cornerstone over the past 92 years, enriching the community with world-class performances. Originally founded as the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Civic Music Association, the organization began by supplementing the community with performances such as the legendary Von Trapp Family Singers, renowned composer and pianist Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Broadway icon Paul Robeson.
Though the organization name has changed a couple of times, their goal remains unwavering: to unite the community through a variety of high-quality musical performances and educational outreach. From classical music to contemporary artists, tribute bands, and more, HCA has brought exceptional talent to the greater Harlingen area, deepening the region’s appreciation for artistic excellence.
The non-profit organization is led by a diverse, 28-member board, representing a wide range of ages and backgrounds. But what binds this dedicated group together is their shared love of music and their collective commitment to sharing that gift with the community. With performances currently housed in the Christian Fellowship Church of Harlingen and under the leadership of current president, Barbara Disbennett, HCA continues to thrive as a driving force, enhancing the cultural canvas of the RGV.
“I have two passions in my life… One of them is nursing, and the other one is the arts,” Disbennett says. After 50 fulfilling years of service, the retired nurse desired a new method of nurturing her community. With the encouragement of a couple of friends who were serving on the HCA board, Disbennett eagerly jumped in to help. Within a few years of serving as a member, sharing her dedication and passion, Disbennett was named president of the organization this past April.
“The work of HCA today continues the long-term history of the organization,” states Disbennett. “We remain committed to bringing high-quality, world class musical entertainment to the RGV community.”
In this corner of the world, where artistic diversity can sometimes feel limited, the HCA collaborates with local and national musical artists to bring the community together to grow their taste and appreciation of different musical genres. Disbennett believes that diversifying musical tastes is important. “Certainly we look at trends in music, but more importantly HCA is committed to offering a variety of types of musical performances… We[…]want to potentially introduce our community to artists and musical talent that offer the opportunity to expand someone’s musical preferences.”
One of Disbennett’s favorite HCA performances and personal experiences was getting to meet Barbara Padilla, an opera singer and finalist on the television show America’s Got Talent. “I was so enthralled with her performance… with the magnificence of her talent,” Disbennett reminisces. “Delightful person, phenomenal artist… If I had to say something about somebody who really kind of touched me in a way I wasn’t expecting, it would be her.”
While HCA is dedicated to enriching our cultural landscape through the magic of live musical performances, a significant aspect of its mission is educational outreach. The aim to inspire and cultivate a deeper appreciation for music among local students is largely in part to the generosity of its sponsors. Through the donations of their patrons, HCA has been able to offer educational programs free of cost to schools, including master classes and mini-concerts, to students throughout Harlingen. “For many students, this is their first opportunity to experience live music,” says Disbennett.
In addition to these personal experiences, HCA is dedicated to supporting students that wish to pursue higher education in the arts. Every year, dozens of students have an opportunity to submit a scholarship application to be reviewed by the HCA Scholarship Committee to help fund their artistic academic pursuits.
Sponsorships play a critical role in the success of the HCA, allowing the group to continue its vision of “creating an atmosphere where music comes alive and unites us.” Both corporate and individual sponsorships are essential for the organization to bring in their high-quality performers and maintain affordable ticket prices. “HCA depends on our subscribers and our sponsors,” Disbennett states.
The HCA is a vital cultural institution in the region, offering more than just concerts but fostering community connections through music. As the organization looks to the future, the HCA is dedicated to fostering an appreciation of live music that transcends generations, ensuring that the joy of the arts in the community continues to grow for years to come.
To get involved, visit harlingenconcert.com, or contact the organization via Facebook or Instagram (harlingenconcertassociation). The Harlingen Concert Association would like to thank their Board of Directors, subscribers, and sponsors for their continued support of arts in the community.
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