The Mariachi Extravaganza received a record breaking number of entries in the vocal competition this season. With the immense amount of talent amongst all our participants spanning from Texas, California, and Nevada, it has become increasingly challenging for the judges to make a decision each year. We want to thank all our participants who submitted a video and especially thank all the parents and teachers who support our kids in their passion for la música mas bonita del mundo.

Congratulations to all of our 2022 Mariachi Extravaganza National Vocal Competition finalists that will compete live in person next month! We can already hear the gritos from our audience members! The public is in for a treat as the preliminary judges have selected 38 finalists to compete on stage – 8 in the Elementary/Middle school category; 20 in High School; 10 from University. 

The 28th annual competition will take place at the Lila Cockrell Theater in San Antonio, Texas on Friday November 18th starting at 9:00am sharp and run about 5 hours. The competition will be MC’ed by 3 of our previous Grand Champion Winners, Melanie Torres (2021), Nathania Flores (2018) and Jackelyn Barrera (2014) and judged by Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlan, la excelencia de México. 

Wristbands to view all the competitions can be purchased at the door for $25.

The criteria the judges will take into consideration include:

• Diction: Mariachi music is a traditional genre therefore it is crucial for singers to sound as authentic as possible with their pronunciation in Spanish. The judges want to clearly understand exactly what the singer is articulating.

• Intonation: Because of the level of competitiveness the judges pay very close attention to the tuning of all the notes in the songs. This is why it is crucial for finalists to choose a song that is within their vocal range 

• Interpretation: The Mariachi Extravaganza’s mission is to promote the tradition of mariachi music. While we love and respect all styles of music, the judges will review that the style of singing is appropriate. Furthermore, is the vocalist transmitting the emotions of the song? 

• Precision: How accurate is the vocalist with their intention and technique?

• Presence: Judges are looking for confidence in the way they carry themselves and move on stage while performing.

• Dynamics: Do they have control of their voice? This is one of the most trivial questions. Can they control their volume when reaching higher notes? Can they be heard on the lower register?

Extra:

• Song selection: Is the song appropriate to the age of the participant? Does it fit the competitor’s vocal range? While no points are based specifically on song selection, it is important that the vocalist chooses a song that allows their unique talent and artistry to shine through.

• Dress: We encourage all our competitors to dress to impress the audience and judges. Points will NOT be deducted for dress code. However, the producer or stage manager of the show can prevent any competitor of the Mariachi Extravaganza from performing if the attire is not appropriate for a family friendly audience.

First, Second, and Third place winners will be announced within each category shortly after the last competitor from college sings. A Grand Champion Winner across all categories will also be named and will be given the opportunity to open up for the Mariachi Extravaganza concert featuring Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlan that evening at 7:30pm.

Tickets to the concert can be purchased on ticketmaster.

The 28th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza is produced by Munoz Public Relations and helps promote higher education and cultural preservation in the mariachi community. With the generosity of our presenting sponsors Cano Health, KHS Academic Alliance, H-E-B, and our supporting sponsors Texas Public Radio and Whataburger, we are able to produce the nation’s largest and longest standing mariachi competitions and one of the most important mariachi music festivals in the world. 

Good luck to all our competitors & see you all in November!