Events Archive - Page 4 of 25 - Rancho La Puerta
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Concerts by Cahill & Delene “Love Songs for our World”

Barry Cahill & Delene St. Clair are a husband & wife, singer-songwriter, vocal-instrumental team from the San Diego, CA area. For the last 39 years, they have been inspiring audiences in the U.S., Costa Rica, Bhutan, Ireland, Scotland and England.

 

As songwriters, one of their songs “Time to Go Home”, from their album “Songs for Humanity”, is aired on CBS.  Two of their other songs won awards in the UNISONG International Song Contest, and the International Songwriting Competition.  They are members of the Positive Music Association and their music can be heard in regular rotation on many internet stations.

As performers, they have a heart to heart connection and synergistic energy onstage with each other and their audiences.  Delene’s guitar stylings, and Cahill’s soulful Sax, Flute, Native American Flute, and Penny Whistle solos, coupled with their perfect vocal blend, provide a sonic beauty that moves, grooves, and inspires the listener.  Besides their original music, Cahill & Delene perform jazz and folk-rock covers from the 60’s-80’s, so be ready to sing and clap along!

 

Listen to their original music:

https://open.spotify.com/album/5lT3qWOQG3MM0KUcVJXgHT

 

Learn more about Cahill & Delene

www.HotPursuitMusic.com

Concerts with April Mosebrook & Mia Mosebrook

A Life in Song
An intimate musical memoir weaving together the songs that define April’s life journey—from her Southern roots through love, loss, and motherhood.

Join us as well for our Summer Outdoor Guest Artist Concert Series, held Wednesdays at 5:00 pm at Bazar del Sol, featuring performances by April Mosebrook and her daughter, Mia Mosebrook.

 

April MosebrookApril Westmoreland Mosebrook is a San Diego–based singer, storyteller, and movement teacher whose work blends music, mindfulness, and embodied joy. A lifelong performer who has appeared on stages across the U.S. and Europe, she is the founder and lead singer of the award-winning band April and the Funk Junkies and the Shania Twain tribute band Man! I Feel Like Shania. Music is central to all she does, including her work as a guest yoga, meditation, fitness, and dance instructor here at the Ranch several times a year. April is also the creator of Front Porch Productions, which curates creative offerings including Bucket List Broadway, a musical theater workshop for adults. She continues to reinvent her artistry, leaning into Americana and roots-based songwriting as inspiration to reimagine what’s possible. Her greatest passions include her heart-husband Kip, her daughter Mia—who joins her performances this week—her four stepsons and their partners, and their beloved dog, Dakota.

https://www.aprilandthefunkjunkiesband.com;%20www.manifeellikeshaniaband.com

IG:
Rockinrazorback
Aprilandthefunkjunkies
ManIfeellikeshaniaband

FB:
April Westmoreland Mosebrook
April and the Funk Junkies
Man!I feel like Shania-the Shania Twain Tribute Band

 

Mia Mosebrook is a rising junior at the University of Colorado Boulder, majoring in Public Relations with minors in Journalism and Political Science. Passionate about music and live entertainment, she plans to pursue a career in music industry PR. A singer and guitarist since childhood, she is always delighted to join her mom for special performances – especially here at the Ranch.

Cooking with the Seasons with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal recipes along with Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.

Summer Concert Series with George Lopez & Gulimina Mahamuti

An inspiring week of music unfolds through dynamic performances for solo piano, two pianos, and four hands—spanning continents, styles, and eras. From the vibrant colors of Latin America to the elegance of the classical tradition and the irresistible rhythms of American classics, each concert offers a distinct and memorable musical journey.

New Horizons: A Journey for Two Pianos at Oaktree Pavilion
Elizondo • Bach • Piazzolla
A rich and compelling two-piano program that moves from the vibrant colors of Mexico to the grandeur of Bach’s Passacaglia, and into the fiery rhythms of Argentine tango. Bold, expressive, and deeply engaging.

American Pie: From Gershwin to the Silver Screen (Solo Keyboard) Outdoor at the Bazar
Gershwin • Joplin • Billy Joel
A high-energy, feel-good program full of rhythm, charm, and virtuosity—from jazzy Gershwin preludes and classic ragtime to the iconic sounds of Broadway and film. Bold, stylish, and irresistibly fun.

Around the World in Four Hands (Piano Duet) Outdoor Concert
Mozart • Mahle • Piazzolla
An intimate and joyful four-hand program that travels from the elegance of Mozart to the vibrant colors of Brazil and the passion of tango. Playful, communicative, and perfect for a relaxed evening under the stars.

 

Duo Mundi: George & Gulimina
Duo Mundi captivates audiences worldwide with their dynamic artistry and bold, innovative programming. Praised for performances that “…breathe the same artistic air…with an adrenaline of communication that captivates audiences of every generation,” the duo creates beautifully synchronized experiences that engage both the eye and ear.

Since their inception, they have performed to standing-room-only audiences across Mexico, China, Brazil, Switzerland, and Italy, including a feature on Italian national television (RAI2). Their 2023 debut at Steinway Hall in New York City marked a major milestone, followed by appearances at the Oculus at One World Trade Center, The Village Trip Festival, and Third Street Settlement Music School. They have also presented a groundbreaking Steinway & Sons SpirioCast connecting audiences in Boston and Philadelphia.

On the West Coast, they have appeared at Santa Barbara’s historic Lobero Theatre and performed throughout Seattle and Baja California. Their reach extends beyond the stage through radio broadcasts such as All Classical Portland’s Thursdays @ Three. Dedicated educators and cultural ambassadors, they present masterclasses and lectures internationally and have reached over a thousand students through outreach initiatives in Belize. In 2024, they launched a Klavierfest at Bowdoin College exploring the impact of A.I. on music. With each performance, Duo Mundi continues to redefine the piano duo experience, bridging cultures and generations.

George Lopez
George Lopez is Artist in Residence and Symphony Orchestra Director at Bowdoin College. Known for his “kaleidoscopic colors and clarity of conception” (Los Angeles Times), he is celebrated for his refined and thoughtfully curated performances. His debut at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam was praised as “authentic and memorable” for his interpretations of Bach and Chopin.

His expansive repertoire includes the complete Mozart sonatas, Beethoven piano concertos, Rachmaninoff’s Etudes-Tableaux, Chopin’s Etudes and Ballades, and Bach’s Klavierübungen, performed across organ, harpsichord, and piano. He has performed internationally throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, Australia, and the United States, appearing at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Merkin Hall, Benaroya Hall, and Ambassador Hall.

Lopez has been featured at major festivals worldwide and has appeared as a soloist with orchestras including the National Symphony of São Paolo and the Prague Chamber Orchestra. He collaborates regularly with members of leading ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic and Chicago Symphony. He holds top honors from the École Normale de Musique in Paris and the Sweelinck Conservatorium in Amsterdam, and is a dedicated mentor to the next generation of musicians.

Gulimina Mahamuti
Gulimina Mahamuti has performed on international stages from Carnegie Hall to major venues in Montreal, Copenhagen, Beijing, Istanbul, and Budapest. As a soloist, she has appeared with orchestras including the Southeast Kansas Symphony, Mansfield Symphony, and Harbin Philharmonic.

Her performances have been featured on radio and media outlets across the U.S., China, and Turkey, including Maine Public Radio and San Francisco’s classical stations, as well as a two-part television documentary in China.

She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, becoming the first Uyghur pianist from China to receive this degree in the United States. She also holds two master’s degrees with highest honors. A passionate educator and advocate for diverse musical traditions, she teaches at Bowdoin College and has published in Clavier Companion, along with her acclaimed album Xinjiang Piano Music from Western China.

The Heart of Americana: Songs & Stories with Claudia Russell and Bruce Kaplan

Concerts:

  • The Heart of Americana
  • The Heart of Americana: Continued

 

Claudia Russell, a celebrated California troubadour, and her husband Bruce Kaplan, a master of electric guitar and mandolin, form an enchanting duo that brings a tapestry of Americana sounds to life. With Claudia’s angelic voice and Bruce’s intricate accompaniments, they create music that resonates with both the heart and soul. Based in the Bay Area, Claudia and Bruce take their audiences on a musical odyssey through the diverse landscapes of American music. Their journey pays homage to the iconic sounds of Laurel Canyon, the historic folk of Greenwich Village, the soulful essence of blues divas, and the rustic charm of Bakersfield’s country scene. At the core of this journey is Claudia’s evocative voice, her skillful guitar playing, and their shared talent for storytelling through music. Since their debut in 2000, this dynamic duo has captivated listeners in over 1000 performances across the United States, from intimate clubs to major festivals and everything in between. Their music, known for its genuine emotion and captivating melodies, has not only thrilled live audiences but has also been celebrated in esteemed circles. Claudia has twice been a finalist in the prestigious Kerrville New Folk competition, and their artistry has been recognized in American Songwriter, Sing Out, and even on NPR’s All Things Considered. As they prepare to grace the stage at Rancho La Puerta, Claudia Russell and Bruce Kaplan promise an unforgettable musical experience that harmonizes the spirit of Americana with the charm of this Mexican paradise. Their performance will be a journey through song, inviting listeners to explore the richness of American music and the intimate stories that make their artistry so unique. Join us for an evening of soul-stirring music and discover why Claudia Russell and Bruce Kaplan are not just performers but true musical storytellers.

Summer Evenings of Music with Jessie Chang, Ling Yan, Martha Aarons, Lev Polyakin

Outdoor Concert
Sunset Serenade with Jessie Chang, piano, and Martha Aarons, flute

Ensemble Concert
Piano, Cello, Flute & Violin  Quartet
Jessie Chang, Ling Yan, Martha Aarons, Lev Polyakin

Jessie Chang is an accomplished pianist who has received top honors in more than thirty prestigious national and international competitions, including numerous first prizes. She is the first pianist to win four gold medals at the U.S. Open Music Competition.  A highlight of her career includes an appearance at the Blossom Festival with The Cleveland Orchestra.  She has also been featured at Carnegie Hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium, Pasadena’s Ambassador Auditorium, and before an audience of 28,000 at Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.  Jessie has performed with numerous orchestras, including the San Diego Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, The Florida Orchestra, Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, Westchester Philharmonic, Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, China Philharmonic Orchestra, Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Jakarta Simfonia Orchestra, and the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra.has received top honors in more than thirty distinguished piano competitions of national and international stature, including various first prizes.

 

Ling Yan is a cellist and dedicated music teacher who began her studies at age six with her father. She later trained at the Tianjin Conservatory and the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, earning top prizes in both China and the United States, including first place in the La Jolla Young Artists Competition. She went on to receive her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Boston University, where she studied with Leslie Parnas.  Ling has performed widely as a soloist and orchestral musician, serving as principal cellist with several Colorado ensembles, including the Boulder Philharmonic and Colorado Ballet Orchestra, and performing with orchestras in California such as the Pacific Symphony and Long Beach Symphony. She has appeared as a soloist in both the United States and China. She is the founder and longtime member of the Harmonium Trio, with whom she has performed a diverse repertoire throughout California. Passionate about teaching, Ling is devoted to helping young musicians grow not only in technique, but also in confidence, expression, and artistry. She is also a frequent judge for string competitions.

 

Martha Aarons’ professional career began with her appointment as principal flute of the North Carolina Symphony. Subsequently she played with the Cleveland Orchestra for 25 years. After becoming a freelancer, she performed often with the Philadelphia Orchestra. During this time, she appeared as guest principal flute with the Metropolitan Opera, Minnesota Orchestra, Milwaukee Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, and Mostly Mozart Festival. Ms. Aarons served as Artist Faculty with the Aspen Music Festival for 19 years. Her teaching credits include the Cleveland Institute of Music, Duke University, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Oberlin College, Skidmore College, Shanghai Conservatory and Eastman School of Music. She has been soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra, North Carolina Symphony, Ohio Chamber Orchestra, and with the Aspen Festival Chamber and Festival orchestras. Her first solo CD, The History of the Tango, is recorded on the Azica label and additionally features pianist Frances Renzi and Grammy-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux. Her newest release is the CD Last Silence with violinist Lev Polyakin and pianist Frances Renzi. Martha is also an avid runner and just ran her sixth consecutive Boston Marathon in April 2026!

 

Lev Polyakin was appointed co-concertmaster of the Moscow Chamber Orchestra at age 21. In that position he was regularly featured as soloist. In the U.S. he served as assistant concertmaster of the Cleveland Orchestra, as well as concertmaster of the American Academy of Conducting in Aspen Music Festival. Lev has won several prizes in international violin competitions, including the Beethoven Prize in Carl Flesch in London, and Gold Medal and Special Prize in Brescia, Italy. In addition to solo performances with the Moscow Chamber Orchestra, he has appeared as soloist with the London Mozart Players, Royal Philharmonic, and Cleveland Orchestra. Recording credits include Melodia, BBC, National Public Radio, and Decca. He is prominently featured on an album entitled Cafe Music comprising chamber music by Paul Schoenfield, which was nominated for a Grammy. Lev has a special interest in jazz and has recorded three CDs, entitled Russian Blue, The Other Side of the Road, and Christmas Kaleidoscope. He is also featured in the recent release by Azica Records entitled Last Silence, with flutist Martha Aarons and pianist Frances Renzi.

Summer Evenings of Listening with Steven Schick

The Beatles: Listen and Talk
In 1963 the Beatles were a promising band just beginning to make a name for themselves. By 1970 they had changed the face of popular music forever. Their metamorphosis is a story of musical genius and the uneasy dreams of an entire generation. Sixty years after “Please Please Me,” they still please us. Let’s listen together and talk about why.

Rhythmic Sounds
The rhythms of nature. The beating of your heart, the rise and fall of the surf, the promise of a child drawing her first breath. The world is full of meaningful, beautiful…and rhythmic…sounds. Join Steven Schick—percussionist, conductor and author—as he explores the world of percussion rhythms and mindful listening.  Don’t worry! This is still your vacation. The performance will be gentle, evocative and will draw you into a world of pulses, sonic textures and musical gestures.  If you think you’ve heard everything there is to hear on a concert stage, then come take a listen to the percussionist that Alex Ross of “the New Yorker” called, “one of our supreme living virtuosos, not just of percussion, but of any instrument.” It will music for both the ears and the heart.

Percussionist, conductor, and author Steven Schick, hailed by Alex Ross in the New Yorker as, “one of our supreme living virtuosos, not just of percussion but of any instrument,” has championed contemporary percussion music by commissioning or premiering more than one hundred-fifty new works. Steven Schick is artistic director of the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus and the San Francisco Contemporary Music Players. As a conductor, he has appeared with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Milwaukee Symphony, Ensemble Modern, the International Contemporary Ensemble, and the Asko/Schönberg Ensemble. He is the curator of, and was most recently conductor and percussion soloist in, “It’s About Time,” a festival of the San Diego Symphony held in January of 2018. Schick’s publications include a book, The Percussionist’s Art: Same Bed, Different Dreams, and many articles. He has released numerous recordings including the 2010 “Percussion Works of Iannis Xenakis,” and its companion, “The Complete Early Percussion Works of Karlheinz Stockhausen” in 2014.  He received the “Diapason d’Or” as conductor (Xenakis Ensemble Music with ICE) and the Deutscheschallplattenkritikpreis, as percussionist (Stockhausen), each for the best new music release of 2015.  He was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 2014.  Steven Schick is Distinguished Professor of Music and holds the Reed Family Presidential Chair at the University of California, San Diego. He was music director of the 2015 Ojai Festival, and in 2017, the co-artistic director, with Claire Chase, of the Summer Music Program at the Banff Centre. In 2018 Schick became the Artistic Director of the Breckenridge Music Festival.

Fourth of July Week Concerts With Corina Rose

Celebrate the spirit of Independence Day with music that stirs the heart and lifts the soul. Singer-songwriter Corina Rose brings her luminous voice and soulful presence to a special week of performances that blend warmth, storytelling, and connection.

Join us for a festive Fourth of July outdoor concert, where music and summer evening air come together in a joyful celebration under the open sky. Later in the week, gather again for an intimate evening performance, offering a deeper, more reflective musical journey.

Drawing from her signature blend of folk, soul, and acoustic influences, Corina Rose creates an atmosphere that is both uplifting and deeply personal. Her songs invite listeners to slow down, listen closely, and savor the moment—perfectly capturing the spirit of a summer week at the Ranch.

 

Corina Rose is a singer/songwriter from San Diego and “Our Love is Freedom” is her third album to be released and according to her “it’s the first album that is very intentional.” The theme of the album is Love-universal, transcendent, energetic and passionate. Each song represents a different facet of Love, Love for humanity and each other.

Corina feels strongly that tapping into the powerful energetic force of Infinite Love is Healing. So she decided to do her best to bring more Love into the world through her music. She states that she is happy to blend her spirituality, personality, sexuality and her musicality into an offering for humanity. Corina is honored and humbled to share her gifts with the World.

At first listen you can hear Corina’s sultry and jazzy sound, which her voice takes center stage. She blends folk and soul music together creating her own stamp on the music community. Corina grew up on a vegetable farm in San Diego which by nature is very relaxing and gives you a natural connection to the Earth and nature itself. The music is very relaxing and beautiful and the message she gives is soothing to the soul. Corina Rose’s music is very refreshing in a world that is in turmoil.

The Way I Tell the Story with David Wilcox

Concerts:

  • The Way I Tell the Story
  • The Way I Tell the Story: Part II

 

There are songwriters who chronicle life; David Wilcox metabolizes it. He has long been a quiet force in American folk music – a musicians musician, a writers writer, and a seeker whose gift lies in making the personal feel universal.

With The Way I Tell the Story (2025), Wilcox proves that resilience isnt just a survival skill—its an art form. The music hes creating now comes from a place that cant be faked. In recent years, Wilcoxs life has been shaped by his wifes Parkinsons diagnosis, redefining his sense of time, love, and presence. Times get tough, and music gets good,” he says, and means it.

In 1989, Wilcox‘s How Did You Find Me Here became an unexpected hit, selling over 100,000 copies largely by word of mouth—an unheard-of feat for a debut folk record. Critics took note of his deft guitar work and emotional clarity, but it was the unassuming wisdom threaded through his lyrics that truly set him apart. Rolling Stone praised his soulful insight,” while The New York Timescalled his music a kind of open-hearted therapy.”

A string of acclaimed albums refined his reputation as a songwriter who knows how to say hard things in soft, lasting ways. Over the years hes shared stages and collaborations with artists like Shawn Colvin, Patty Larkin, and John Gorka. Wilcox’s influence runs deep, especially among younger artists trying to build something real, and his music still resonates. His songs remain a rare kind of company. Not flashy. Just deeply, generously alive.

Healthy Pleasures with David S. Sobel

Healthy Pleasures: Why Everything that Feels Good is Not Bad
Many people think that to promote health they must undertake strict weight-loss diets, adopt punishing exercise programs, avoid salt, shun cholesterol, and follow all sorts of arduous, pleasure-denying regimens.  Fortunately, scientific evidence now suggests that for most people doing what is pleasurable, from sensual delights to selfless pleasures, from optimism to laughter, pays off twice: immediate enjoyment and better health.  So, taking a siesta, playing with a pet, talking to a friend, looking at nature, smelling a sweet scent, laughing at a funny movie, going shopping, having sex, soaking up the heat of a sauna, taking a vacation, passionately pursuing a hobby, sipping a glass of wine, indulging in chocolate (yes, chocolate!), listening to your favorite music, helping someone in need, thinking optimistically, practicing gratitude, and scores of other healthy pleasures may measurably improve your health.

Rx Healthy Sex: Is Sex Good Medicine?
Sexuality is central to human well-being, but most of medicine is focused on sexual dysfunction and health risks of sexual activity. But can enjoying the pleasures of sex have benefits for health and well-being? Is good sex good for you? We will explore the scientific evidence that sexual activity can increase longevity, lower heart disease risk, reduce prostate cancer, reduced vaginal atrophy, burn calories, improve marital satisfaction, support successful aging, reduce stress and even stop headaches. We will also consider if sex be prescribed and how can sexual satisfaction be enhanced.

Behavior Change Made Simpler: Health Benefits of Success & Confidence
Strong evidence suggests that celebrating successful behavior change (no matter how small!) increases confidence, and confidence itself improves health and well-being. So, while increasing exercise, eating more healthfully, and managing weight are important, most of us experience repeated failure in maintaining long-term behavior change.  What does repeated failure do to our sense of confidence and control? Happily, there are practical ways to improve confidence, success, and health through small changes without sacrificing enjoyment. You don’t have to kill yourself to save your life!

Stress: Avoid, Cope or Embrace?
Do you often feel that stress depletes your health, vitality, and health? Do you believe that stress is negative and should be avoided? Or do you view stress as positive- something that enhances your health, growth, and performance? It turns out that our beliefs about stress (our “mindsets”) may be more powerful in shaping our health, than stress itself. Rather than just managing stress, learn how to shift mindset to embrace and utilize stress as something helpful.

 

David Sobel,David S. Sobel, MD, MPH, is Adjunct Lecturer, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, and Visiting Scholar at Stanford’s Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences (CASBS). He was Director of Patient Education and Health Promotion for Kaiser Permanente Northern California which serves over 4 million members and practiced adult primary care medicine.   Dr. Sobel completed a Bachelor’s degree in psychology (University of Michigan), medical education (University of California San Francisco), medical internship (Presbyterian Hospital-Pacific Medical Center), Masters in Public Health and a residency program in General Preventive Medicine (UC Berkeley). His research and teaching interests include medical self-care, patient education, preventive medicine, behavioral medicine and psychosocial factors in health. He has written ten books: including The Healing Brain, Healthy Pleasures, The Mind & Body Health Handbook, Ways of Health: Holistic Approaches to Ancient and Contemporary Medicine, and Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.  Dr. Sobel’s more than 200 television appearances to educate the public about health issues include the Today Show, CNN, Hour Magazine, and a television news segment on an ABC news affiliate station in San Jose. He also served as an invited delegate to the Congress that generated the Ottawa Charter on Health Promotion. He has provided over 500 invited keynote lectures in a variety of professional and public venues including the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), American Hospital Association, National Institutes for Health, National Health Service (NHS UK), UCSF, Stanford, Harvard, and Esalen Institute.

Dance with Wil Williams

Wil-son Williams is a Philadelphia native who began performing at the early age of 8 with The Next Generation Dance Company under Stephan Love and Leon Evens. Excelling in tap, jazz, and African genres, Wil has performed at The Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, and has made a guest appearance on the television talk show “People Talk.” In addition, he has trained under world-renowned entertainers Maurice Hines, Jaye Allison, and Delphine Mantz—all before reaching high school. Wil continued his dance education with ballet and modern techniques at the High School of Creative and Performing Arts Philadelphia (CAPA High).

Now in Los Angeles, with over 20 years of dance training, Wil-son has performed all over Los Angeles in numerous LA-based dance projects with companies including Los Angeles Choreographers and Dancers, The Los Angeles Orchestra, Nike Advertisement, BET Television Network, Charo Entertainment, and the L.A. County Fair. His skills continue to grow, covering ballroom dancing styles such as salsa, Argentine tango, and swing.

At age 18, Wil combined his love of dance with his natural ability to teach and began instructing dance while continuing to perform. Finding that fitness and dance often went hand-in-hand, he brought in a third component to his portfolio and launched his fitness career in Los Angeles at 26 years old. He currently holds certifications from national fitness authorities such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, the American Council on Exercise, and the latest dance fitness craze, Zumba. Adding to his fitness training, Wil has learned Turbo Kick, Pilates, and Special Population Fitness Training. Holistic wellness and natural health have been Wil’s passion for six years, and he stays up to date on the latest research in all-natural dietary trends and supplements.

For the past eight years, Wil has been working with both children and adults of all ages and skill levels. He has led many group and private classes at gyms and studios throughout West LA, including Spectrum South Bay, Downtown LA Job Corps, Sports Club LA, Your Neighborhood Studio, and at special events such as the recent Lakers 3-on-3 Tournament. Wil focuses on providing patience and a nurturing environment for his students, while always encouraging them to have fun and learn.

In addition to his group classes, Wil works with several celebrities’ children, including Pam Anderson, Jane Seymour, and many celebrity child stars. Many of Hollywood’s elite have been trained by Wil and attend his classes, including Tara Lipinski, Jacky Loughery, Paula Abdul, Vivica A. Fox, and Mina Hung.

www.wiltodance.com

Rhythms of Latin America: Concerts with Juan Pablo Andrade and Linda Chávez

Alma Latina: Piano Music from the Heart of Latin America with Juan Pablo Andrade
Experience the soul of Latin America through the piano.

Fiesta A Cuatro: Dazzling Latin Gems for Piano Four-Hands with Juan Pablo Andrade & Linda Chávez
A vibrant, high-energy collaboration showcasing the brilliance and joy of four-hand piano repertoire.

 

Juan Pablo Andrade, a prominent Costa Rican pianist, enjoys a dynamic presence both on stage and in the academic realm. Recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Costa Rican National Prize of Music— the highest honor bestowed upon a musician by the Costa Rican Ministry of Culture. He has also received top honors at international competitions like the Artlivre International Piano Competition in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the Carlos Enrique Vargas National Piano Competition in Costa Rica. With a performance schedule that spans several continents, Andrade has played as a soloist with various orchestras. He is also a familiar face with the Costa Rican National Symphony.  His recital tours have taken him through the Americas and Europe, with standout performances at the Yehudi Menuhin Forum in Bern, Switzerland, the World Piano Conference in Novi Sad, Serbia, and a solo recital tour in South America. His CD “War to Peace” with violinist Betul Soykan, has been warmly received by critics, including a notable review in Fanfare magazine. In the academic realm, Andrade serves as a Professor of Piano at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he brings his rich performance experiences into the classroom. His commitment to music education extends beyond his university role, frequently serving as a guest faculty at international festivals and founding the La Frontera International Piano Conference in Brownsville, Texas. This event underscores his passion for enriching the cultural tapestry of the region and providing platforms for musical exchange.

Linda Chávez is a distinguished Mexican-American pianist. She holds degrees from the University of Texas at Brownsville and Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A laureate of an impressive array of awards, grants, and scholarships, Miss Chávez has crafted a career that epitomizes excellence in both performance and education. Her talents have garnered her coveted invitations to international festivals as diverse as Costa Rica, Italy, Aruba, Austria, Puerto Rico, and Lincoln Center in New York City. Currently, Ms. Chávez is the principal pianist for the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she is the visionary founder and enthusiastic proprietor of the Brownsville Piano Studio, South Texas’ premiere institution dedicated to piano education. Under her guidance, the studio provides instruction to over 225 students each week. Her entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of Ananda Music Experience, an innovative online music program tailored for adult women who aspire to learn music in a mindful and enriching environment.  Linda Chávez continues to inspire and make a profound impact in the world of music; fostering positive change through music is a hallmark of her distinguished career.

Perimenopause and Menopause with Dr. Lani Simpson

The Heat is ON!
Hormone imbalances, throughout a woman’s life…especially at menopause have health consequences including, bone, heart and mental health. The world of hormone balancing, testing and treatment is all over the map. Some “anti-aging” doctors recommend high doses of hormones during menopausal transition, while other doctors recommend very low doses and often incorrect forms of estrogen that do not provide bone support to prevent bone loss. Some women can lose up to 15-20% post menopause for 5-7 years, without hormones. Some doctors are behind the times, still thinking that hormone therapy’s risks outweigh the benefits. Not all women can take hormone therapy – then what? There are ways to minimize symptoms and reduce bone loss. Dr. Lani offers a No-No-Nonsense approach to hormone testing and treatment options to consider.

Our Hormones, Including Hypothyroidism
Signs and symptoms of hormone imbalance seen in menopause and premenstrual syndrome. Bone loss can be significant, starting with irregular cycles. The difference between bio-identical hormone therapy and traditional hormone therapy will be presented. Best and worst testing methods for hormones including blood, saliva and urine testing are offered, which testing method is best to evaluate hormone levels? Hypothyroid is a condition that surfaces around menopause for many women. Too much thyroid medication and result in bone loss. It is all about balance!

Navigating Treatment Options
This presentation will include alternative versus medical treatment options that patients are faced with and the efficacy of such treatments. Hormone delivery options both pros and cons will be presented including, oral, transdermal – patches or compounding creams, injectable pellets, vaginal application. Gastrointestinal health, nutritional balance and exercise will be discussed as an integral part of a sustainable and healthy treatment program.

 

Dr. Lani Simpson DC, CCD, is a Certified Clinical Densitometrist (analyzes bone density exams), chiropractor and author of the best-selling book, Dr. Lani’s No Nonsense Bone Health Guide. In 2016, her PBS show: Stronger Bones, Longer Life was aired nationally. She herself was diagnosed with osteoporosis in her mid-40’s and as an avid biker, runner, and tennis player she had never fractured a bone. Her own diagnosis set her on a course to learn about the complexities of bone health. She went on to develop a well-rounded diagnostic approach that includes bone density testing, lab tests, nutritional analysis, and exercise. She learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and she supports the wise use of bone medications. It is her life’s mission to educate the public regarding osteoporosis prevention, and an osteoporosis diagnosis so that they are better able to advocate for themselves with their healthcare providers. Now at the age of 75, Dr. Simpson continues to teach bone-related courses and she is still fracture free.

#1 Best Seller: Dr. Lani’s No-Nonsense Bone Health Guide
New release: Dr. Lani’s No-Nonsense SUN Health Guide
PBS show, Stronger Bones, Longer Life – SHOW TRAILER
Website: https://lanisimpson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1625656326
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.lanisimpson/

Vera Sola

Alternately cast as the ”lost love child of Leonard Cohen and Nancy Sinatra” and “PJ Harvey at her mostirate, teeth-bared,” Vera Sola makes timeless, time-bending sound. With an ethereal voice and a haunting body of song, Vera Sola is back with ‘Peacemaker’, her sophomore album set for release on 2nd February,2024. Stream the latest singles ‘Desire Path’ and ‘The Line’ now.

Peacemaker follows Vera Sola’s critically acclaimed 2018 debut Shades. The record is at times bold and orchestral while retaining some of the dirt and grit that was present under the fingernails of Shades, realizing a whole world while managing to also find remarkable detail in snapshot vignettes.” If one were to unroll the mind, and watch as the moments that coalesce into memories rise from the map into relief. It’s a collection of stories stitched together with that particular dreamlike quality which allows for disparate spaces to converge into a single scarcely knowable vastness”.

Peacemaker is out on City Slang and Spectraphonic Records.

Marbled & Collaged Art with Brent Hedstrom

Where creativity and color flows.  Step into the peaceful calm of the art studio and check in with your creative self.  When we’re surrounded by quiet, ideas move through us more freely-color seems brighter, and even the simplest materials begin to spark new possibilities. In this hands on workshop, you’’ll explore the magical, meditative process of paper marbling- a playful technique that transforms ink and color into swirling, one-of-a-kind patterns.  The method is unexpected, the results are always surprising, and the experience itself is calming.

Once your marbled paper prints are complete, we’ll move into editing, where you’ll layer, reassemble, and mount your designs into expressive notecards and personal works of art.  It’s a beautiful way to let go of perfection and allow your hands and intuition to lead.

What you’ll leave with:

A set of handmade notecards using your marbled papers and a fresh connection to your creative rhythm rooted in stillness and play.

Both the process and results will surprise you.

 

Screenshot

Brent Hedstrom, from the bright lights of Broadway to the vibrant chaos of the art studio, Brent’s journey is nothing short of eclectic.  His resume spans theatrical stage makeup for iconic productions like The Lion King, Romeo and Juliet, Terracotta Warriors and Medea, to owning a salon where his mastery of color and form took on new dimensions. A self-proclaimed “art junkie,” Brent Hedstrom channels his creativity into a wide range of visual art.  In his studio he works with acrylics and oils on wood panels, resin finishes, metal and paper weaving, and a special passion: marbling all kinds of paper into mesmerizing patterns.

Marbled & Collaged Art with Brent Hedstrom

Where creativity and color flows.  Step into the peaceful calm of the art studio and check in with your creative self.  When we’re surrounded by quiet, ideas move through us more freely-color seems brighter, and even the simplest materials begin to spark new possibilities. In this hands on workshop, you’’ll explore the magical, meditative process of paper marbling- a playful technique that transforms ink and color into swirling, one-of-a-kind patterns.  The method is unexpected, the results are always surprising, and the experience itself is calming.

Once your marbled paper prints are complete, we’ll move into editing, where you’ll layer, reassemble, and mount your designs into expressive notecards and personal works of art.  It’s a beautiful way to let go of perfection and allow your hands and intuition to lead.

What you’ll leave with:

A set of handmade notecards using your marbled papers and a fresh connection to your creative rhythm rooted in stillness and play.

Both the process and results will surprise you.

 

Screenshot

Brent Hedstrom, from the bright lights of Broadway to the vibrant chaos of the art studio, Brent’s journey is nothing short of eclectic.  His resume spans theatrical stage makeup for iconic productions like The Lion King, Romeo and Juliet, Terracotta Warriors and Medea, to owning a salon where his mastery of color and form took on new dimensions. A self-proclaimed “art junkie,” Brent Hedstrom channels his creativity into a wide range of visual art.  In his studio he works with acrylics and oils on wood panels, resin finishes, metal and paper weaving, and a special passion: marbling all kinds of paper into mesmerizing patterns.

Marbled & Collaged Art with Brent Hedstrom

Where creativity and color flows.  Step into the peaceful calm of the art studio and check in with your creative self.  When we’re surrounded by quiet, ideas move through us more freely-color seems brighter, and even the simplest materials begin to spark new possibilities. In this hands on workshop, you’’ll explore the magical, meditative process of paper marbling- a playful technique that transforms ink and color into swirling, one-of-a-kind patterns.  The method is unexpected, the results are always surprising, and the experience itself is calming.

Once your marbled paper prints are complete, we’ll move into editing, where you’ll layer, reassemble, and mount your designs into expressive notecards and personal works of art.  It’s a beautiful way to let go of perfection and allow your hands and intuition to lead.

What you’ll leave with:

A set of handmade notecards using your marbled papers and a fresh connection to your creative rhythm rooted in stillness and play.

Both the process and results will surprise you.

 

Screenshot

Brent Hedstrom, from the bright lights of Broadway to the vibrant chaos of the art studio, Brent’s journey is nothing short of eclectic.  His resume spans theatrical stage makeup for iconic productions like The Lion King, Romeo and Juliet, Terracotta Warriors and Medea, to owning a salon where his mastery of color and form took on new dimensions. A self-proclaimed “art junkie,” Brent Hedstrom channels his creativity into a wide range of visual art.  In his studio he works with acrylics and oils on wood panels, resin finishes, metal and paper weaving, and a special passion: marbling all kinds of paper into mesmerizing patterns.

Music as a Vehicle to Inner Freedom Concerts with Phoebe Hunt and Dominick Leslie

Workshop: Songwriting as a Tool for Inner Freedom Guided by Phoebe Hunt

In this workshop, Phoebe will guide participants through a foundational songwriting journey, opening the gateway for creative writing, songwriting, and soul expression. Through a variety of exercises, Hunt will lead the group and then help to workshop a select group of participants to turn their writing into song. By being a part of the songwriting experience, all who choose to attend can expect to walk away with a greater confidence in their own ability to write a song. On a deeper level, all participants can expect to have a greater understanding of the process by which a song comes to life as well as the vehicle that songwriting can be toward gaining insight on inner freedom.

 

 

Phoebe Hunt and Dominick Leslie bring charm and virtuosity to the stage as their original music touches on the roots of American music winding from jazz to country, from swing to bluegrass and even touching on world music with eastern influences with ease and grace. Independently the two have traveled with a number of bands, touring through the States as well as internationally. Best known for her TEDx talks around the healing power of music and as front woman of her band, Phoebe Hunt & The Gatherers, Hunt is a top-shelf fiddler and songwriter who spends her time between performances holding space for others to grow through the power of music. Drawing from 30 years spent studying the violin/fiddle, Hunt’s latest release interweaves her classical upbringing with Appalachian Old Time, Texas Swing, and a maturity of songwriting that creates an unfiltered, raw expression dripping with palpable vulnerability. “Hunt certainly doesn’t neglect her roots, but she doesn’t wallow in the dirt of her influences, either.” – Rolling Stone| Colorado native Dominick Leslie has been around live music all his life, having attended his first bluegrass festival when he was just five months old. Best known as a touring member of GRAMMY award winning bluegrass band, Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway, Dominick Leslie has been involved with many outstanding projects over the years including The Deadly Gentlemen, The Grant Gordy Quartet, Missy Raines and the New Hip, The Bee Eaters, Noam Pikelny & Friends, Hawktail, Sam Reider and the Human Hands, Phoebe Hunt and the Gatherers and several other spontaneous groups.

Amazing Oceans of Life with Mark Hixon

Amazing Oceans of Life
Explore the beautiful and bizarre creatures that inhabit our seas, from tropical coral reefs to the deep abyss, with a leading expert. Dr. Mark Hixon uses stunning photographs, vivid video clips, and entertaining dialog to bring the undersea world indoors.

Coral Reefs: Rainforests and Canaries of the Seas
Explore the greatest concentration of life on the Earth including the life of corals, the amazing biodiversity of reefs, how coral reefs benefit humans, and how humans are threatening the very existence of reefs.

Abyss: Bizarre Creatures of the Deep Sea
Explore the dark recesses of the oceans, inhabited by creatures that look like characters from science fiction movies. Much of this presentation will be accompanied by video taken from deep sea submersibles.

Medicine Circle with Mark Hixon
The Medicine Circle is a Native American ritual of inner duality and balance orchestrated on a circle of colored stone

Mother Ocean and Humanity: A Fragile Bond
The seas have provided people with numerous goods and services over millennia, yet Mother Ocean is now suffering. Dr. Mark Hixon will discuss how the invisibility of what lies below the sea surface and the myth of ocean inexhaustibility have led to environmental challenges that require each of us to become better ocean stewards.

 

Mark Hixon, PhD, is an endowed professor of marine biology at the University of Hawai‘i. For the past 40 years, he has studied sea life underwater using SCUBA and small research submarines, exploring kelp forests off California, the deep sea off Oregon, and coral reefs from the Caribbean to the Great Barrier Reef. An internationally recognized expert in coral reef ecology and conservation, Mark serves as an associate editor of multiple scientific journals, and is past chair of both the Marine Protected Areas Federal Advisory Committee (for the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and the Ocean Sciences Advisory Committee (for the National Science Foundation). His on-line TED talks and TV appearances about sea life are both informative and entertaining.

Mah Jongg with Toby Salk

The Beauty and Soul of Mah Jongg

Come hear Toby Salk’s lively lecture about the history of how Mah Jongg became so popular in the United States, how Mah Jongg has seeped into popular culture, and so much more. Toby’s mother and aunts played Mah Jongg before she was born. So, you might say she first heard the clicking and clacking of Mah Jongg tiles in the womb! Don’t miss this wonderful and wacky Toby Salk talk! You do not need to be a player to attend!

Beginners Mah Jongg–American Style

This class will teach you the basics of playing American Mah Jongg according to the National Mah Jongg League Guidelines. The focus will be on tile recognition, rules, strategy and lots of fun! This is also a great class to take if you are rusty and want to go back to the basics. You must be present for the first class if you really want to learn – 4 classes.

 

Toby Salk knew it was time for reinvention after the end of a long-term corporate job. She tried on all of the hats she’d worn throughout her life, seeing if one might fit again. One night, she was sitting at a dinner party with a successful bakery owner. She looked at her squarely in the eye and said, “You should be teaching Mah Jongg.” Before Toby could protest, she offered her bakery in the evenings for her first class. Experimenting on friends first, she then organized her first class at Sweet Adeline Bakery and had to turn people away. It was a huge success. Now she is teaching all over the Bay Area, including two exclusive women’s clubs on Union Square, Berkeley Adult School, Orinda Park and Rec, and private homes.

Cooking with the Seasons – Mexican Recipes with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal Mexican recipes and Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms and are rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Mexican Menu – tradition, culture, and love.

  • Salsa Trio (verde, roja & macha)
  • Ranch Guacamole & Baked Chips
  • Baked Salmon or catch of the day
  • Tortilla soup
  • Mole from scratch
  • Mushroom Pastor tacos
  • Red rice
  • Arroz con leche / alegrias
  • Cajeta
  • Agua de Horchata
  • Mocktail in season (margarita,clamato,paloma,sangria)

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.

Cooking with the Seasons – Mexican Recipes with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal Mexican recipes and Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms and are rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Mexican Menu – tradition, culture, and love.

  • Salsa Trio (verde, roja & macha)
  • Ranch Guacamole & Baked Chips
  • Baked Salmon or catch of the day
  • Tortilla soup
  • Mole from scratch
  • Mushroom Pastor tacos
  • Red rice
  • Arroz con leche / alegrias
  • Cajeta
  • Agua de Horchata
  • Mocktail in season (margarita,clamato,paloma,sangria)

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.

Cooking with the Seasons – Mexican Recipes with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal Mexican recipes and Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms and are rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Mexican Menu – tradition, culture, and love.

  • Salsa Trio (verde, roja & macha)
  • Ranch Guacamole & Baked Chips
  • Baked Salmon or catch of the day
  • Tortilla soup
  • Mole from scratch
  • Mushroom Pastor tacos
  • Red rice
  • Arroz con leche / alegrias
  • Cajeta
  • Agua de Horchata
  • Mocktail in season (margarita,clamato,paloma,sangria)

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.

Cooking with the Seasons – Mexican Recipes with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal Mexican recipes and Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms and are rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Mexican Menu – tradition, culture, and love.

  • Salsa Trio (verde, roja & macha)
  • Ranch Guacamole & Baked Chips
  • Baked Salmon or catch of the day
  • Tortilla soup
  • Mole from scratch
  • Mushroom Pastor tacos
  • Red rice
  • Arroz con leche / alegrias
  • Cajeta
  • Agua de Horchata
  • Mocktail in season (margarita,clamato,paloma,sangria)

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.