The Vocal and Group Competitions of the inaugural Mariachi Extravaganza Las Vegas are set to take place on March 8 at the UNLV Performing Arts Center. This contest is one of the most highly anticipated and competitive events in the mariachi music world, showcasing the exceptional talent of both vocalists and mariachi ensembles from all over the nation. At the heart of this prestigious competition are the three esteemed judges who bring their unparalleled expertise and passion for the genre to the table. These judges, with their deep understanding of mariachi traditions and their keen musical insights, play a critical role in evaluating the performances that will determine who rises to the top. As the competition grows more intense each year, the judges’ discerning eyes and ears ensure that only the most extraordinary performers and groups receive the recognition they deserve.
Adrian Mendoza is a highly respected trumpet player based in Las Vegas and known for his exceptional skill and dedication to mariachi music. From 2013 to 2018, he toured and recorded with the acclaimed Mariachi Sol de México and was nominated for a Latin Grammy. Adrian has also performed with the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán during the Luis Miguel tour, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier mariachi musician. Currently, he serves as a master trumpet instructor for Clark County ISD, where he is deeply committed to nurturing young talent and promoting mariachi education throughout the district. His passion for teaching is complemented by his family’s strong musical roots.
Jimmy Cuéllar is a proud alumni of UNLV where he studied music composition. He is a former member of the legendary Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano and the current director of Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. He is a three-time Grammy Award-winning musician, composer, and arranger whose is dedicated to preserving traditional mariachi music while embracing innovative styles. Cuéllar’s versatile talent has led him to perform on NPR’s Tiny Desk with pop star Camila Cabello, further showcasing his ability to bridge traditional mariachi with contemporary music. Under his dynamic leadership and creative vision, Mariachi Garibaldi continues to captivate audiences in both the U.S and Mexico with their show Fiestas de Mexico. Mariachi Garibaldi is currently touring with Miguel Peña’s Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande and will be performing Fiesta Sinfónica con Mariachi Garibaldi on Saturday, March 22, at the Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa, California.
Jonathan Palomar is a talented performer, recording artist, and fourth-generation mariachi musician, best known for his time as a vocalist and guitarist with the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán. As a former member of the iconic, Mexico-based ensemble, Jonathan has captivated audiences worldwide with his powerful voice and deep-rooted passion for mariachi music. He is currently in his third year as Artistic Director of the Mariachi Extravaganza, where he guides and inspires the next generation of mariachi artists. Jonathan is also working on an EP with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s award-winning Mariachi Aztlán and contributing to their upcoming 30th Anniversary album. Dedicated to both his craft and education, he is pursuing a degree in Music at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, continuing to expand his musical horizons while honoring his family’s rich mariachi legacy.
Join us on Saturday, March 8th, for an unforgettable day of music and talent at the UNLV Performing Arts Center. The competition runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering an incredible opportunity to witness some of the most skilled mariachi performers vying for the top honors. Then, at 7:30 p.m., don’t miss the spectacular Grand Finale Concert, where the competition winners will take the stage alongside the legendary Jonathan Palomar. It’s an experience that promises to be filled with energy, passion, and the heart of mariachi music—be sure to attend and be part of this extraordinary celebration of culture and talent!