The Canales Project
Founded by internationally acclaimed mezzo-soprano Carla Canales, The Canales Project (TCP) is a musical organization hosting a variety of collaborative, advocacy-centered projects that give voice to issues of identity and culture through music and conversation. As the word ‘canales’, the spanish word for ‘channels’, suggests, we seek to create a network of partnerships with organizations and individual artists, enhancing messages relevant to social and cultural change.
Vision
To give voice to issues of identity and culture through music and conversation.
Mission
We believe in simple ideas, strong relationships, and lasting impact. What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead.
Founder’s Statement
As the daughter of a Mexican mother and a Bulgarian father, I felt I was born into a state of cultural confusion. My life’s journey has brought me to the conclusion that cultural diversity is best understood when we start by celebrating what we have in common. I believe that it has never been more important to find the ties that bind us and heal divisions. In my experience, nothing can do so with greater power than the arts.
Throughout my life, I have been checking the “other” box on census forms and applications. Doing so made me feel like an outsider; like I didn’t fit in. I started to ask myself, “Who is the other?”. In speaking about this I realize that I am not alone. I decided that I wanted to use my voice to help lead the journey from “the other” to “the all.”
We are living in a time of worldwide cultural tensions, triggered by migration, technological dislocation, war and other factors. Most affected are children and young people who are grappling with issues of identity every day. Further, it is this new generation that will lead the world in the era to come.
For these reasons, I have started The Canales Project. I hope to work with other artists to bring their stories and talents together to help children and audiences everywhere cope with these realities. We are committed to using the power of the arts to touch hearts, examine belief systems and find those common bonds that link all of us and help us overcome our differences.
We hope you will join us in this mission!
Carla Canales