Melodia Mariposa in Altadena
The Eaton Fire 2025
On the night of January 7th, a fire that started in Eaton Canyon spread in 100 mph winds to consume most of our beloved town of Altadena. Over 9000 structures were lost including 6000 homes.
Our Founder, Irina Voloshna lost her home in the fire along with the homes of many. many of our loyal supporters, members and patrons. Many Altadena musicians lost their homes and we lost most of our local concert venues – the William D Davies Memorial Building in Farnsworth Park, St Mark’s Church and the Altadena Town and Country Club.
Commitment to Community
Even before the fire, Melodia Mariposa was committed to community. We were created out of the trauma of Covid, when Irina Voloshina hosted abouy 70 free concerts on her driveway for her neighbors.
Melodia Mariposa are often asked to take part in community events in Altadena and we are always looking for ways to give back.
Raising Funds for Musicians
At our first concert after the fire in February 2025, we held a fundraiser that collected $15,000 that we distributed directly toi local musicans who had lost their homes.
In other efforts, we also raised and distributed thousands of dollars to about 20 children who lost instruments in the fire. Here Javier De Luna and Nick Cisneros enjoy their new instruments.
Our Altadena Strong concert, featuring the Lyris Quartet, was held in February 2025 – only a month after the fire.
Community Events
Eaton Fire Benefit Concert
Melodia Mariposa was honored to be asked to take part in a variety performance at the Alex Theatre in Glendale on March 27th 2025 to raise funds for Altadena fire victims.
Alongside an eclectic mix of Altadena performers from many musical genres, Melodia Mariposa was represented by the amazing pianist Rodolfo Leone who performed Chopin to rapturous applause.
Eaton Fire Commemoration Event
On the anniversary of the Eaton Fire on Jan 7th, 2026, Melodia Mariposa was honored to perform at the official commemoration ceremony outside Grocery Outlet on Lake Avenue. We were represented by a brass quintet led by Doug Tornquist.
Melodia Mariposa was delighted to partner with the following organizations assisting local people and musicians.
Musicians of all ages lost musical instruments to the LA fires. Altadena Musicians are doing something about it by pairing needs with resources. Visit www.altadenamusicians.
Creativity meets generosity.
Freeconcertclothing.org is a resource organized by musicians for musicians offering free, pre-loved, gently used concert clothing and accessories. They have a growing collection of concert attire, mostly black, but some colored gowns and other formal wear. The collection is growing daily and they are updating their website to reflect new additions. If you have anything to donate, please contact them online.
World Central Kitchen has been feeding fire victims and emergency personnel in Altadena. They kindly offered to provide a food truck after our concert in February. We thank them for their support.