A new Texas nonprofit focused on the future of Tejano and Conjunto music said it awarded its first-ever scholarship.
The Tejano NextGen Fund, Inc. named Orlando Cano of PSJA Southwest Early College High School in the Rio Grande Valley as the recipient of its inaugural 2026 scholarship. Cano, an accordionist, was recognized for his passion for the genre.
“We are excited to announce the recipient of the 2026 Tejano NextGen Fund, Inc Scholarship: Orlando Ariel Cano,” the organization shared on social media. “His love for Conjunto and Tejano music, commitment to preserving cultural traditions, and dream of mentoring future musicians embody the mission of the Tejano NextGen Fund.”
The fund was launched earlier this year by Tejano Music Awards winner Angelica Alcoser and Latin Grammy-winning accordionist Arthur “Tweet” Juarez Jr. The organization is gaining attention for its dual focus on cultural preservation and education.
In a recent KSAT feature, Alcoser said, “We really want to support the culture of Tejano music, but also support education and the importance of that. It’s important for us to ensure that we have fresh new musicians… who are proud of the genre.”
The inaugural program awarded one $1,000 scholarship to a graduating Texas high school senior actively involved in Tejano or Conjunto music, whether through school programs or community participation. Applicants were required to submit a 2-3 minute performance video and other materials.
The application timeline ran March 15 through April 30, with the recipient announced May 17.
The fund has spotlighted young talent like 12-year-old Michael Hernandez Jr., known as “El Gallo Firme,” as well as Zeke Campos of the Conjunto Cats and drummer Eddie Perez Jr., pointing to the need for mentorship to keep the genre sustainable.
“I think it’s super important because if we don’t keep our kids in it… that’s how it can slowly go away,” said producer Eddie Perez.
The organization says future awards may increase as the fund grows, with outreach already underway to high schools in San Antonio, the Valley and West Texas.