Students looking to broaden their musical horizons this upcoming semester are in for a pleasant surprise, as two brand new music courses will be available them. Mariachi Ensemble I (MUEN 1160) and Mariachi Ensemble II (MUEN 2160) will debut this Fall Semester, providing a perfect opportunity for students who have always wanted to get a foothold on learning a little bit more about music.

As the names suggest, both courses are rooted in mariachi music and cover a wide array of elements inherent to the style. 51���� Music Program Administrator and Director of Mariachi Escorpion Avigai Gonzalez feels that the biggest strength of the courses is that they can align with a student’s prior level of musical experience, whether they are already experienced musicians or just barely picking up an instrument for the first time.

“Mariachi Ensemble I is a beginner mariachi class for any students interested in learning a mariachi instrument such as the violin, trumpet, harp, vihuela, guitarron, and guitar, while Mariachi Ensemble II is an intermediate and advanced class,” Gonzales explained. “This is the performing group for students who have experience in mariachi and would like to continue their mariachi skills at the performance level.”

The classes are the latest additions to a growing number of music programs and events at TSC. This past April, the college hosted the first-ever installment of the TSC Mariachi Festival, drawing in over 600 visitors and 500 students and performers from across Texas over the course of two days. More recently, the three-day TSC Mariachi Summer Camp saw students from several South Texas schools gather together to learn from an assortment of musical clinicians and participate in a group concert at the college’s Performing Arts Center.

With more music courses gradually becoming available and a dedicated program for an associate’s degree in music in the works, TSC is offering more opportunities for students to explore music as an area of study to enhance their overall college experience.

“The beauty of a community college lies in the personalized attention and direct guidance it offers students toward achieving their future goals, regardless of their field of study,” said Gonzalez. “I am a product of a community college, and it was the perfect path for me because it provided me with the opportunity to reflect on my true aspirations, and music has always been my passion.”

Drawing on her own experiences as a student and a teacher, Gonzalez understands the powerfully positive effect that such a thing can have on students who are still searching for their own path in higher education. “The support and guidance I received from my professors were among the greatest blessings in my life. Today, I strive to give back that same guidance by directing a music program here at TSC.”

For more information on the new Mariachi Ensemble I and II courses, please visit the TSC Registration page or contact Avigai Gonzalez at avigai.gonzalez@tsc.edu

The unmistakable sounds of violins, guitars, trumpets, and dynamic sung vocals rang throughout the 51���� Performing Arts Center on the afternoon of Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Once the dozens of young musicians adorned the stage in their colorful trajes concluded their piece, the gathered audience showered them with resounding applause.

It was as amazing a conclusion as they could have hoped for, especially considering that they had learned the entirety of their performance in only three days.

The second installment of TSC’s Mariachi Summer Camp once again managed to attract a large number of young students to participate in interactive music lessons. Over the course of three days, they studied under the tutelage of a selection of talented and accomplished music clinicians, including an assortment of skilled music instructors from different BISD schools. Many of them have seen the positive impacts that music education can have on students.

“Some of the benefits I have seen, both with the students here and with my students, is that these kinds of opportunities can open their eyes to a new world of possibilities,” said Anahil Suarez Gaytan, Mariachi Director at Rivera Early College High School and member of Mariachi Margaritas. “It’s empowering to them, and they’re so happy to be able to perform with wonderful teachers and people who they admire.”

In addition, Adrian Vaca, an accomplished member of the renowned Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez, filled the important role of Master Class Conductor. Vaca’s lifelong love of and devotion to music made him a natural choice, as he could share the benefit of his years of experience with students.

“It’s a privilege to be able to give back the knowledge that I’ve obtained over the years because I’ve been lucky enough to have great educators throughout my life, so having the ability to give back is an honor,” said Vaca. “The kids are so fortunate to have people who believe in them and in Mariachi education, so it’s been a true honor to be here working in these great facilities and giving these kids the opportunity to work with educators who can help them grow.”

Perhaps none are prouder to see the camp draw in so many students and performers than Avigai Gonzalez, TSC’s Music Program Administrator and Director of Mariachi Escorpion. Her experiences in teaching and performing mariachi music have created a genuine desire to help others develop the same appreciation for the learning process involved in studying music and the cultural aspect of mariachi music.

“The importance of the cultural connection with the Mariachi Camp and our campus at 51���� is how the music plays a huge role in our culture, students, and our future,” she said. “Bringing these camps into our campus and allowing our students to have these opportunities to study music and get hands-on experience with our clinicians creates a scenario in which they can learn about their own cultural heritage through the history and style of mariachi.”

The participating students came from different schools and backgrounds, but they were all united by their genuine appreciation for music and a desire to continue improving their skills, regardless of whether they were already seasoned musicians or only picking up instruments for the very first time.

”It’s really fun here, and I’m having a good time,” said Matteo Lopez, a 7th-grade��student with IDEA Pharr. “The school is very pretty, and I love that the teachers are professionals and are really good at teaching. I’ve only been involved with music for about a year and a half, but the camp has really helped me with my mariachi skills, especially learning to be a leader and grow more as a person.”

In news that will be music to the ears of students looking for a unique and enriching opportunity, 51����’s Fine Arts Department will once again hold their Mariachi Summer Camp, running from July 1-3, 2024 at the TSC Performing Arts Center.

“The summer camp provides a unique opportunity for students to enhance their musical skills and focus on their instruments,” said camp organizer Avigai Gonzalez, who is also TSC’s Music Program Administrator and Director of Mariachi Escorpion. “It’s a non-competitive atmosphere in which students from different school districts can receive guidance from skilled clinicians as they learn, play the same music, and end build new friendships together.”

Over the course of three days, students will participate in exercises and group clinics taught by an assembly of mariachi experts, all of whom are eager to share the benefit of their cumulative years of experience. Among them are master conductor Adrian Vaca, a graduate of Berkeley University and a member of the renowned Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez. Additionally, clinics will also be led by local talent including Karina J Vela, Antonio Delgadillo, Aide de Anda, Anahil Suarez Gaytan, Fabiola Ahuja, Doris Zedillo, and Gonzalez herself.

“One of the great benefits about this camp is that personalized learning experience that students will have with the clinicians,” said Gonzalez. “They work closely with each student, ensuring that they are progressing at a comfortable pace.”

Although the clinicians bring with them several years of experience, Gonzalez stresses that students of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, are encouraged to join in.

“It’s important for students of all levels to participate in the mariachi camp because it creates a perfect opportunity in which they can learn from one another. Regardless of whether one is a beginner or an advanced musician, there is always something to learn, and the true learning experience occurs when we step out of our comfort zones and open ourselves up to learning from others.”

While a large portion of the camp is devoted to teaching students the technical aspects of playing instruments and performing, Gonzalez feels that it creates a perfect opportunity which can help students understand and appreciate the rich cultural history of mariachi and spark a genuine interest in exploring the genre further. “When we think about the concept of cultivating a larger interest in mariachi music, one word stands out: opportunity. Our camp can provide all students with an opportunity to develop a sincere passion for the music as they learn from leading experts in the field.”

With the Mariachi Summer Camp less than a month away, Gonzalez is eager to see a fresh new batch of students join in and contribute to an ever-growing chorus of mariachi appreciation and education. “Music is a field that welcomes individuals of all ages, skill levels, and cultural backgrounds. Even the most renowned musicians in history have undergone music education to hone their skills and achieve success, so please don’t hesitate to give it a try, as I believe that anyone can embark on a musical journey to discover their true potential.”

For more information or to register, please visit the TSC Mariachi Summer Camp webpage or email avigai.gonzalez@tsc.edu.

Mariachi Escorpion

BROWNSVILLE, April 20th – The inaugural TSC Mariachi Festival, hosted by 51����, attracted over 600 visitors and showcased the talents of more than 500 students and performers from around Texas. The festival unfolded over two exhilarating days filled with workshops, competitions, and performances at TSC’s Jacob Brown Auditorium and Performing Arts Center, resonating with the vibrant sounds of mariachi music across the campus.��

Middle and high school students participated in various competitions, with Mariachi Oro from McAllen High School winning the grand champion group performance award. Individual accolades for best vocal performances went to Matteo Lopez of IDEA Pharr and Lea Garcia of McAllen High School.��

A diverse array of workshops offered students the opportunity to learn from accomplished musicians, including TSC Music Program Director and Mariachi Escorpion Director Avigai Gonzalez, Karina Vela of Mariachi Margarita, 51���� Mariachi Escorpion, and UTRGV Mariachi Aztlan. These sessions provided invaluable mentorship and skill enhancement tailored to the student’s chosen instruments.��

The festival concluded on Saturday with a highlight concert featuring Embajadores Del Mariachi Sol De Mexico de Jose Hernandez. In a special showcase, the Festival Grand Champion, Mariachi Oro from McAllen High School, had the distinguished opportunity to open for the renowned mariachi group.������

Avigai Gonzalez, the festival’s principal organizer, expressed her profound gratitude and joy over the event’s success. “Our inaugural 51���� Mariachi Festival was a resounding success, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who attended, supported, and believed in our vision,” Gonzalez stated. “This weekend was truly amazing, demonstrating how mariachi music can enrich our children and unite a community.”��

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��TSC Mariachi Festival Competition Winners

Vocal Competition:

Middle School Category��

1st Place
Matteo Lopez – IDEA Pharr��

2nd Place��
Karol Ramirez – Roma Middle School��

3rd Place��
Yareli Cano – Fossum Middle School

High School Category��

1st Place��
Lea Garcia – McAllen High School��

2nd Place
Dante Ramos – La Joya High School��

3rd Place��
Michelle A. Meraz – Rio Grande City High School��

MARIACHI PERFORMANCE:��

Middle School Category��

1st Place����
Mariachi Escandon – Roma Middle School����

2nd Place����
Mariachi Juvenil Santander – Ramiro Barrera Middle School����

3rd Place��
Mariachi Leon – IDEA Pharr Middle School����

5A High School JV Category��

1st Place��
Mariachi Los Lobos JV – La Joya Palmview High School��

2nd Place��
Mariachi Sol de Oro JV – Valley View High School����

3rd Place��
Mariachi Azteca JV – James Nikki Rowe High School����

5A Varsity Category��

1st Place����
Mariachi Oro – McAllen High School����

2nd Place��
Mariachi Los Lobos – La Joya Palmview High School����

3rd Place��
Mariachi Azteca – James Nikki Rowe High School��������

6A JV Category����

1st Place
Mariachi Halcón Dorado JV – Los Fresnos High School��

2nd Place����
Mariachi Dorado JV – Edinburg North High School��

3rd Place����
Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel – San Marcos High School����

6A Varsity Category��

1st Place��
Mariachi Primer Orgullo – Edinburg High School����

2nd Place����
Mariachi Los Coyotes – La Joya High School����

��3rd Place��
Mariachi Oro – Edinburg North High School����

��Grand Champion��
Mariachi Oro – McAllen High School��

April 19th, 2024, Browsnville – 51���� (TSC) is proud to present its inaugural Mariachi Fest, which will take place on Friday, April 19, and Saturday, April 20, 2024. Spanning the Performing Arts Center and Jacob Brown Auditorium, the event promises to be two days filled with music.��

Organized by TSC music instructor and program administrator Avigai Gonzalez, the festival will host an array of competitions, informative workshops, and exciting performances to promote a greater awareness of the benefits that music can introduce��into��the lives of those who engage with it.��

When asked what to expect from the festival, Gonzalez enthusiastically replied, “Two days full of music, non-stop. From the morning to evening on Friday and Saturday. Every step of the way, you should expect to hear people competing, teaching, or performing music at any given moment.”��

Throughout the two-day event, there will be a series of group and vocal performance competitions involving participants from middle and high schools across Texas. Workshops will also be hosted throughout both days so that student performers will have opportunities to further hone their skills with their instruments of choice.��

Finally, two Grand Performances will cap off each day, featuring live sets from Mariachi Juvenil Atzlan, Mariachi UTRGV Atzlan, and Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez.��

To Gonzalez, putting together an event such as this achieves her goal of helping to spread awareness and appreciation for this music to new audiences. In her experience, the best way to inspire is through immersion.��

“I grew up in a family immersed in cultural music,” said Gonzalez. “My father was a composer and played Mariachi Norteño, so we grew up listening to his music nearly��every day.”

��This immersion fostered a genuine love for��Mariachi, which further developed into a mission to continue studying music with the hope of inspiring others to cultivate an interest in it. “I’ve been studying and performing music for most of my life, but I chose to get my master’s degree in education because I wanted to put myself in a position to help a new generation of young people develop a love for this music.”��

Because of her background, there is also a genuine desire to celebrate the rich cultural history of Mariachi music. Gonzalez feels that the power of Mariachi music extends past being a genre of music, seeing it as a source of empowerment.��

“Representing the��traje��and��mariachi��in the field means a lot to me. When I was younger, it was uncommon to see a lot of women performing in the genre, but whenever��I put on the��traje, I not only feel honored, but it’s almost like a superhero outfit that empowers us to do the best that we can,” Gonzalez remarked with a smile. “It inspires so much passion in performing, and it makes me incredibly happy to see so many young boys and girls filled with the same enthusiasm when they put on their outfits and perform.”��

For those who already��have an appreciation for��the music but are curious or hesitant about taking the step from spectator to performer, Gonzalez is more than eager to impart some heartfelt advice.��

“Don’t doubt yourself. When you have the love of music and a passion for the art, it will always be with you. Embrace the idea of identifying yourself as a musician and go for it. You might surprise yourself.”��

For more information and ticket sales,��please visit the��51���� Mariachi Festival��page.��

Brownsville, TX – April 5, 2024 – 51���� is thrilled to unveil its inaugural Mariachi Festival, a grand celebration of Mexican culture set to captivate audiences and foster community engagement while embracing cultural diversity within our college and surrounding communities. The festival will run on April 19 & 20, 2024, at the historic 51���� campus.����

This two-day festival promises a unique blend of education, entertainment, and talent showcasing. Attendees can look forward to a rich cultural experience through a myriad of performances, workshops, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting mariachi education and local talent,�� /news/mariachi-festival/.��

“The Mariachi traje is the armor of our culture, bestowing us with special powers that make us feel like superheroes,” said 51���� Music Program Administrator and Mariachi Escorpion Director Avigai Gonzalez. “The vibrant colors of our culture serve as the shield of our superpowers, empowering and inspiring us to embrace our true heritage and strength.” ��

Headlining this prestigious event are the renowned Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández, a group of internationally acclaimed musicians, composers, and educators who have made significant contributions to the mariachi music genre. Their performances promise to be nothing short of mesmerizing, breaking boundaries with their unparalleled talent.��

In addition to the stellar headliners, the festival also features a lineup of local expert musicians and clinicians, including 51���� Mariachi Director Avigai Gonzalez, Mariachi Margarita’s Karina Vela, 51���� Mariachi Escorpion, and UTRGV Mariachi Aztlan. The wealth of talent and expertise assembled for this event ensures an enriching experience for all attendees.��

Join us for a weekend filled with melodies, culture, and community spirit as we come together to celebrate the art of mariachi music. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of Brownsville’s premiere Mariachi Festival!��

For more information and ticket sales, please visit 51���� Mariachi Festival website page @ /news/mariachi-festival/��

The following students are the 51���� Mariachi Festival 2024 Vocal Competition Finalist:����

Middle School (MS) Vocal Finalists��

Yareli Cano, Fossum MS; Arely Decanini Da Vinci School for Science and the Arts; Evelyn Delgado, Gutierrez MS; Jacob Estrada, BL Garza MS; Matteo Lopez, IDEA Pharr, TX; ��Karol Ramirez, Roma MS.��

High School (HS) Vocal Finalists��

Sienna Delgado, San Marcos HS; Diego Fernandez , Veterans Memorial ECHS; Lea Garcia, McAllen HS; Lorriane Garza, Roma HS; Samuel Garza, Roma HS; Daniel Gonzalez, Hanna ECHS;�� Athena Gonzalez, Weslaco HS; Jose Guerra, Nikki Rowe HS; Aiza Guerrero, Harlingen HS;�� Daniela Lopez, San Marcos HS; Aliah Maldonado, La Joya HS; Michelle A. Meraz, Rio Grande City HS;�� Frida Montelongo, Valley View HS;�� Jaida Ortiz, Weslaco East HS;�� Dante Ramos, La Joya HS; Lesly Rodriguez, Los Fresnos HS; Alicia Rojas, Simon Rivera ECHS; Dayanara Salinas, Roma HS; America Fernanda Sanchez, Palmview HS; Isaias Torres, Kinder HSPVA; Merari Uribe, Palmview HS; Leandra Valdez, San Antonio HS; Abigail Vela, Veterans Memorial ECHS; Sergio Villa-Sansores, Da Vinci School for Science and the Arts.��

Attend one or all of the public events. Purchase tickets online @ top box.����

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