Calling all mariachi vocalists! The 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza National Vocal Competition returns to San Antonio this December, and the deadline to enter is quickly approaching.
Vocalists have until October 1, 2026 to complete their registration and submit their audition video for an opportunity to advance to the National Vocal Competition Semifinals on Thursday, December 3.
For nearly three decades, the National Vocal Competition has provided young singers with a platform to showcase their talent, develop as performers and take the stage in front of a live audience and distinguished mariachi professionals. The competition is open to students from across the United States through the college/university level, up to age 25. Vocalists may participate as members of a registered mariachi group or compete independently.
How the Competition Works
The road to the Mariachi Extravaganza stage begins with an audition video. Vocalists must submit their video along with their completed registration by the October 1 deadline.
Competitors are divided into four categories based on their current grade level: Elementary (PreK–5th grade), Middle School (6th–8th grade), High School (9th–12th grade), and College/University (up to 25 years old).
Selected vocalists will advance to the National Vocal Competition Semifinals on December 3 in San Antonio. Finalists will then return to the stage on Saturday, December 5, during the final day of the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza.
Preparing Your Audition
A strong audition starts with preparation. Vocalists should select a song that complements their voice and experience level and allows them to demonstrate their musicianship, interpretation and stage presence.
Based on the competition guidelines, entrants should keep these important requirements in mind:
- Perform and submit a complete song rather than a partial selection.
- Keep the performance under four minutes to avoid a time penalty.
- Submit the audition as a YouTube link with the registration rather than a social-media link or downloadable file.
- Make sure the vocalist can be heard clearly over any live or prerecorded accompaniment.
- Record closely enough for judges to clearly see the vocalist and their performance.
- Perform from memory rather than reading lyrics from a phone or another device.
- Choose a song appropriate for the vocalist’s experience and ability level.
Most importantly, don’t wait until the last minute. A registration is not considered complete without the required audition video, and late videos are not accepted.
What Are the Judges Looking For?
Judges will evaluate each vocalist across several areas that reflect the technique, musicianship, and expression of a strong mariachi vocal performance.
Competitors will be evaluated on:
- Pitch / Intonation — Maintaining accurate and consistent pitch throughout the performance.
- Diction / Pronunciation — Delivering lyrics clearly with proper pronunciation and articulation.
- Interpretation / Style — Expressing the character, emotion, and traditional style of the selected song.
- Timing / Precision — Maintaining rhythmic accuracy and staying together with the accompaniment.
- Dynamics / Volume / Clarity — Demonstrating control of dynamics and volume while maintaining a clear vocal sound.
- Vibrato — Using vibrato with control and musicality to complement the performance.
- Phrasing — Shaping musical phrases naturally and expressively while maintaining the flow of the song.
Here is an example of our most recent Vocal Gand Champion, Allyson Contador
Important Dates for Vocalists
October 1 — Vocal Competition Registration Deadline
October 31 — Vocal semifinalist will be announced on or before this date
December 3 — National Vocal Competition Semifinals
December 5 — National Vocal Competition Finals
The 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza takes place December 3–5, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together student musicians and vocalists for three days of competitions, workshops and performances. The weekend concludes Saturday evening with the Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán Grand Finale Concert at 7:30 p.m.
Don’t Miss the October 1 Deadline!
Whether you’re returning to the Mariachi Extravaganza stage or entering the National Vocal Competition for the first time, now is the time to prepare your song, record your audition and submit your registration.
All vocal competition entries must be submitted by October 1.
Register for the 2026 National Vocal Competition
We look forward to hearing the next generation of mariachi vocalists take the stage in San Antonio this December!
In the meantime, here is a glimpse on what’s to come, see you soon!
