Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Vocal Competition winners Karenn Lazo (from Roma) and Sebastien de la Cruz (from San Antonio) joined Alberto “Beto” Alfaro for a 3-day residency program leading up to the Mariachi Vargas concert. During those 3 days the trio performed for students in Detroit and Ann Arbor schools, participated in arts exchange programs, performed in a hospital and interacted with students at local Hispanic community based organizations. The trip and residency experience was made possible by the University Musical Society (UMS), one of the largest, and second oldest, presenting arts organizations in the U.S.

Next on the tour……Mariachi Vargas travels to Houston on Wednesday in preparation of “To Cross The Face of the Moon” presented by the Houston Opera. The first half of the concert will be performed with the Houston Opera with Jose “Pepe” Martinez as the lead voice and Mariachi Vargas accompaniment. Also appearing is Vanessa Cerda, a previous Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Vocal Competition Winner. Mariachi Vargas will perform the second half of the concert as solo artists.

Following Houston is the 16th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza November 28 – December 4. San Antonio is where it all happens from the largest mariachi group and vocal competitions to mariachi themed art exhibits, mariachi music serenatas on the River walk and much, much more. See mariachimusic.com for a complete schedule of events or call 210-225-3353.