Who has been the most important person in your life who has inspired you?

Mariachi Vargas as a group influenced me early on. My father, Ruben Sandoval, played the trumpet with Mariachi Chapala in a restaurant in Guadalajara where Mariachi Vargas and famous singers like Lucha Villa performed regularly. At the time Mario de Santiago was a violinist and vocalist with Mariachi Vargas. He had a great impact on me when I was younger, because of his distinct voice and original style.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Waking up at 3:00 a.m. to take a flight out of Mexico.

What is the best advise you can give a student?

The best advice I can give to a student is to listen to mariachi music. Strive 100% to study and practice and be the best you can possibly be.