Join us for Texas Folklife’s 36th Annual Accordion Kings & Queens Concert, a joyous celebration of Texas’s rich cultural and musical heritage! This free event showcases the accordion, an instrument deeply woven into the state’s diverse folk traditions, from polka and conjunto to zydeco and beyond. Bringing together legendary performers, rising stars, and music lovers of all ages, it’s a night of unforgettable sounds, dance, and community spirit.
This year’s lineup features an extraordinary mix of talent:
Sean Ardoin – A five-time Grammy-nominated zydeco powerhouse, Sean brings Creole music to life with electrifying performances. A descendant of zydeco pioneer Amédé Ardoin, Sean has earned international acclaim with hits like “Kick Rocks” and “Kreole Rock and Soul”. He’s graced stages from Carnegie Hall to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and NCIS: New Orleans, showcasing his unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Brave Combo – Known as America’s premier dance band, Brave Combo takes audiences on a global musical journey. The Grammy-winning quintet from Denton, TX, blends polka, rock, salsa, cumbia, and more into their signature high-energy style. For over three decades, their infectious rhythms and eclectic sound have entertained fans worldwide, making them a beloved Texas treasure.
The Texas Sweethearts – A family band from the Rio Grande Valley playing your favorite tunes, Tex-Mex style.
Adding to the excitement, the event spotlights rising talent from Texas Folklife’s Big Squeeze program, which nurtures the next generation of accordionists. The 2024-2025 Big Squeeze Youth Ambassador, Alyssa Villarreal, will perform alongside the newly crowned 2025-2026 Youth Ambassador, announced at the contest finals in Austin. These young musicians embody the future of Texas traditions, inspiring audiences with their skill and passion.
The accordion, widely regarded as the unofficial “National Instrument of Texas,” plays a unifying role in the cultural expressions of Texan communities, blending influences from Mexican, Czech, German, Cajun, and Creole roots. Accordion Kings & Queens is not just a concert—it’s a tribute to the diversity, resilience, and beauty of Texas’s cultural heritage.
So dust off your dancing boots, bring your friends and family, and join us for an evening of lively rhythms, unforgettable performances, and community celebration.
This event is free and open to the public—don’t miss this historic celebration of Texas music and culture!