Nearly 60 students from 21 cities from Texas, Arizona and California convened in San Antonio June 18-22 for the 7th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza Summer Camp.
Students studied under the tutelage of master maestros Vanessa Alonso and Octavio Moreno where they experienced a vocal immersion over a one-week period learning vocal techniques, personalized tips and teamwork.
Camp participants took part in a public performance held at the prestigious Tobin Center for the Performing Arts – Carlos Alvarez Theater where they performed Jose “Pepe” Martinez’ original “La Fiesta del Mariachi” and Lalo Guerrero’s “Canción Mexicana” as a choir. “La Fiesta del Mariachi” paid tribute to international Superstar Luis Miguel and his world tour with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán.
In addition, soloists and award-winning vocalists from the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza entertained audiences with spectacular performances that included “Y Volvere,” “La Charreada,” “El Soldado de la Vita,” “El Jaripeo” and “Leña de Pirul” with beautiful accompaniment by the lovely Mariachi Flor de Jalisco.
Attendees at the sold-out public performance included people from as far away as Ohio and California. Students from McAllen, Roma, Rio Grande City, Grand Prairie, San Antonio, Kyle and New Braunfels welcomed students who came from as far away as Sacramento, California and Tucson, Arizona to participate. Here’s what they had to say about the camp:
“I had such an unforgettable week at the Mariachi Extravaganza Summer Vocal Camp. It was such a great way to better our vocal skills and share the love of mariachi music with so many talented and loving people. It was fun to reunite with old friends and make new ones. I had such an amazing time with such great people and I can’t wait until next year!!”
-Jizelle Rodriguez
Kyle, Texas
“I loved performing at the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Summer Vocal Camp! It was not only tons of fun but I also had the opportunity to meet such amazing people and make new friends. We all did an amazing job, and I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to attend camp.”
-Marisa Rose Mejia
San Antonio, Texas
“I was blown away by the student performances. I especially enjoyed the young student who sang the song “Granada” (Christina Lopez from McAllen) along with the gorgeous trajes and dresses the students wore. It was inspiring and gratifying to see the younger generation embracing the beautiful musical traditions of Jalisco, Mexico.”
-Linda Massengale
San Antonio, Texas
“What an amazing week I had at this camp! Being able to meet new, sweet and amazingly talented people, who all share the love for mariachi music, was awesome. It was a privilege to be there with everyone including Maestros Octavio Moreno, Vanessa Alonso, Karen Zavala, Debra Torres and William “Carlton” Galvez who were great. I’m so glad to be a part of something that represents the Mexican culture in the best possible way. Dio bendígale a todos y que viva el mariachi!!”
-Elliot Vela
San Antonio, Texas
“I love that the camp introduces the beautiful culture to young people – some who have had very little exposure to mariachi music – while stimulating experienced mariachi artists at the same time. I also love that once a year I get to host camp participants in my home and enjoy the company of talented teens.” Kamryn Ramirez and Natalie Carmona from McAllen were a joy to host!”
Cynthia Muñoz
San Antonio, Texas
“As a mariachi musician, it’s always inspiring for me to see the next generation of mariachi music performers. I love seeing youth keeping this beautiful tradition alive!”
Debra Torres
San Antonio, Texas
Thanks to all who participated in making this another memorable experience for these students and another successful MPR Production. Thanks to our volunteers Cindy Rodriguez (Kyle), Jessica Treviño (McAllen), Mateo Muñoz (San Antonio), Jeremy Falkner (San Antonio) and Alex Richardson (Kyle). Thanks to our instructors Octavio Moreno (Tucson), Vanessa Alonso (Houston), Karen Zavala (San Marcos), Debra Torres (San Antonio) and William “Carlton” Galvez (San Antonio).
Funding for the 7th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza Summer Camp was made possible through proceeds generated from the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza, student registrations and concert ticket sales from the student recital. Thanks also to the contributors who helped underwrite some of the registration fees for student participants. Thanks to the parents for supporting this initiative.
Now, on to the next events lined up for this year. Join us for the premiere of Jizelle Rodriguez and Mariachi Aztlán videos at the 40th Annual Cine Festival in San Antonio July 6th and 8th. Then, follow Jizelle and Aztlán to some great performances in Floresville, Texas (July 8) and Greeley and Lone Tree, Colorado (July 15th and 16th). Also, be sure to mark your calendar for the largest and longest running mariachi music event in Texas at the 24th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Nov. 11-18, 2018.
And, mark your calendar for the 8th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza Summer Camp. Dates are set for June 17-21, 2019.
Visit us on mariachimusic.com to learn more about upcoming events or call us anytime at 210-860-9633.
