The Mariachi Extravaganza Songwriting Competition was added to the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza in 2011 to provide aspiring songwriters with the opportunity to share their original works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Mariachi Songwriting Competition?
The purpose of this competition is to create and promote the original works of mariachi songwriters and composers on a local, regional and national level.
Who can participate?
Anyone can participate.
What is the cost to participate?
If you enter only one song, there is no cost to participate.
How many entries can I submit?
You can enter as many songs as you’d like. The first entry is free. Each subsequent song entry requires a $25 registration fee.
How are entries submitted?
E-mail an MP3 or MP4 audio file of your entry to cynthia@mariachimusic.com. If you are submitting more than one song, please submit each as a separate file. Include your name, phone number, e-mail address and the names of those who helped you create the lyrics, arrangement and/or recording for each of the songs.
What if the song is a collaborative work?
If more than one person participated in the creation of the song, please list with your submission the names of all collaborators and/or co-writers.
When is the deadline to submit an entry?
Important dates can be found on the Schedule page.
Who are the judges this contest?
Current or former members of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán judge this songwriting competition.
What is the judging criteria?
Judging criteria include melody, lyrics, mastery of songwriting technique and originality.
How is the winner selected?
Each of the songs is played in its entirety for the judges, who give each song a rating based on the above-mentioned criteria. These ratings are tabulated and discussed by the judges. Judges then choose first-, second- and third-place winners.
When will judging take place?
Judging will take place on Thursday of the week of the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. Winners will be notified that same day. Winners will be recognized during the mariachi group and/or vocal competitions.
May I attend the judging?
The judging is open to the public. Everyone is invited to attend.
How important is the quality of the recording I submit?
The quality of the recording will not affect the results of the judging, nor will the arrangement or vocal/instrumental performances on the recording. These are not part of the judging criteria.
How many winners are chosen?
The judges will select one winner each for first, second and third place.
What are the prizes?
Winners will be recognized during the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza music festival, in press releases distributed to the media and in MPR publicity and blogs posted on mariachimusic.com.
Who maintains the rights to the song?
The author maintains all rights to the song until such time as he or she chooses to sell, transfer or forfeit those rights.
