About the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance
The Puerto Rican Arts Alliance stands as a cornerstone of Chicago's cultural landscape, bridging heritage preservation with contemporary arts education. Through partnerships with three community centers and Chicago Public Schools, we provide vital access to quality arts instruction for Chicago’s youth.
From our acclaimed National Cuatro Festival to the innovative Latin Music Project youth conservatory, PRAA has evolved into a nationally recognized model, demonstrating how cultural preservation and community empowerment transform lives across generations.
Impact That Echoes Generations
We transform lives by connecting students to their cultural roots and building essential life skills through arts education. Annually, thousands of youth, students, and audience members explore, learn, and expand their appreciation of Puerto Rican culture and heritage through PRAA. Recognized as one of Chicago's Cultural Treasures, our impact extends from the Midwest to Puerto Rico and beyond.
Educating Students
330,000
+
students taught through music and arts education programs
Celebrating Culture
250
+
cultural events produced across Chicago and Puerto Rico
Preserving Heritage
5,000
+
stories, photos, and cultural artifacts archived in our collection
Building Partnerships
100
+
active school, community, and civic partnerships
Hear from Our Community
Hear from Our Community
“The program creates a beautiful community atmosphere. My child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn every week.”
"Through perfect attendance and commitment to my apprenticeships, I learned time management and teamwork skills that helped me succeed academically. The program prepared me for college in ways I never expected."
“Being part of LMP connected me deeply to my Puerto Rican roots. Performing at the National Cuatro Festival was life-changing—it showed me what I’m capable of.”
Our Mission
The Puerto Rican Arts Alliance is dedicated to preserving Puerto Rican culture by maintaining our traditions, promoting our arts, providing educational opportunities in arts programming, and cultivating pride in our heritage for future generations.
Our Vision
PRAA is dedicated to fostering community pride through cultural music and arts educational programs, performances, and exhibitions by providing access to high-quality artistic experiences. By becoming a national model for pre-conservatory music learning and training, we are developing the next generation of professional musicians. Through studio arts and high-quality exhibitions, we provide opportunities for aspiring future artists.
