When the Big Squeeze launched in 2006, the goal was simple: give young musicians a statewide stage to share the traditions they carry. Twenty years later, that vision has only grown deeper. From Zydeco and Cajun to Polka, Conjunto, Tejano, and Classical, this program has helped launch the journeys of artists who have gone on to perform, record, teach, and keep their traditions alive for the next generation.
We are thrilled to introduce your 2026 Big Squeeze Ambassadors. These are young musicians who embody the spirit and future of Texas accordion tradition.
Rising Star Ambassador Marco Martinez, 11, Floresville, TX
Ages 13-15 Ambassador Valentina Alanis, 14, Penitas, TX
Ages 16 & Up Ambassador Christian Zapata, 17, Mission, TX
Sponsors/Supporters:H-E-B, Hohner Accordions, Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA), Texas Folklife, The Alice Kleberg Reynolds Foundation, The Summerlee Foundation, Texas Music Office, Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Medical and Trauma Specialists-RGV
Make a Tax-Deductible Donation to Support The Big Squeeze 2027
2026-2027 Big Squeeze Ambassadors
Rising Star Ambassador Marco Martinez, 11, Floresville, TX
Ages 13-15 Ambassador Valentina Alanis, 14, Penitas, TX
Ages 16 & Up Ambassador Christian Zapata, 17, Mission, TX
2025-2026 Big Squeeze Youth Ambassador
Emiliano Soto
Edinburg, TX
2024-2025 Big Squeeze Youth Ambassador
Alyssa Villarreal
Houston, TX
The Big Squeeze is supported by Texas Folklife Board Members, members across the State, Hohner, Inc., H-E-B, and TCA. Additional support is provided by regional partners: The City of Edinburg, and other stakeholders dedicated to the preservation and continuation of the accordion tradition.
Support the Big Squeeze by becoming a Texas Folklife member or purchasing Texas Folklife merch online.
The Big Squeeze offers a variety of opportunities for individuals and organizations to become sponsors of this distinguished program. For more information on becoming a Big Squeeze Sponsor, please email mfreire@texasfolklife.org or call 512-441-9255.
