Tejano NextGen Fund Spotlighted as It Expands Scholarship Opportunities for Young Musicians

The Tejano NextGen Fund is gaining major attention as it continues its mission to cultivate the next generation of Tejano and Conjunto musicians—this time through a feature on San Antonio television station KSAT that shines a light on both emerging and established talent shaping the genre’s future.

At the center of the report is 12-year-old middle school student Michael Hernandez Jr., known as “El Gallo Firme.” The 7th grader represents the heart of the nonprofit’s vision—young, passionate artists dedicated to carrying forward the rich sounds of Tejano music.

The segment also highlights young Tejano and Conjunto talent, including Zeke Campos, 23, of the Conjunto Cats, a lead vocalist and accordionist, and Eddie Perez Jr., 21, a drummer who has built a career as both a studio and touring musician. Both artists reflect the impact of early support and mentorship in helping young musicians transition into professional careers.

Backing the initiative are seasoned, Grammy Award-winning musicians who understand the importance of investing in youth. Among them are accordionist Arthur “Tweet” Juarez and producer/musician Eddie Perez of the Gruene Room production studio, both lending their experience to guide the next wave of talent.

Tejano Music Awards-winning singer and founder of the Tejano NextGen Fund, Angelica Alcoser, emphasized the organization’s dual focus on culture and education in the KSAT report.

“We really want to support the culture of Tejano music, but also support education and the importance of that,” Alcoser said. “It’s important for us to ensure that we have fresh new musicians… who are proud of the genre. We want to mentor these young musicians and offer opportunities to them.”

Eddie Perez echoed that urgency, pointing to the long-term sustainability of the genre.

“I think it’s super important because if we don’t keep our kids in it… that’s how it can slowly go away,” he said. “I have two kids in college, so I know how hard that can be… especially for a musician.”

In line with that mission, the Tejano NextGen Fund has officially opened applications for its inaugural 2026 scholarship. The program will award 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.

The scholarship marks a significant step forward for the Texas-based nonprofit as it continues building pathways for young artists while preserving a deeply rooted cultural legacy.

Application Timeline:

• March 15, 2026 – Applications open
• April 30, 2026 – Application deadline
• May 17, 2026 – Scholarship recipient announced

Applications contain certain requirements including a 2-3 minute performance video. The organization also notes that scholarship opportunities are expected to expand as the fund grows.

Students, educators, and community members interested in applying or supporting the initiative can request an application by emailing info@TejanoNextGenFund.org.

As young artists like “El Gallo Firme” take the stage and seasoned professionals step in as mentors, the Tejano NextGen Fund is proving that the future of the genre is not only alive—but in good hands.

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