University Set for First 'Fiesta de Mariachi' April 25

The guitars are tightly stringed and the trumpets polished to a glow for the first-ever mariachi music competition, "Fiesta de Mariachi," scheduled Sunday, April 25 from 1- 6 p.m. at Texas A&M International University.

The event is scheduled to bring a dozen mariachi bands from throughout the region here for a one-day competition.

Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Stephen Brown said the event is intended to showcase the artistry of mariachi music.

"We want to celebrate the artistry of mariachi music, reward its new generation of performers and provide the audience with an opportunity to see and hear the traditional music of the border," Dr. Brown said.

Fiesta de Mariachi Contestants will compete for first, second and third place awards as well as best section awards. Guerra Communication is providing corporate support for the event.

To date, 11 high school groups from throughout the region have registered for the competition, including Alexander High School, Cigarroa, United, United South, Cotulla, Winn, Martin, McAllen, Roma, Eagle Pass and Zapata. A special performance will be offered by the Trautmann Middle School Mariachi.

Refreshments and foods will be available for sale on-site. No coolers will be permitted and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Brown said the University is looking forward to the event as a cornerstone activity for the University's developing Fine and Performing Arts Center, a cornerstone of its Phase III expansion.

"We're all excited by this initiative and are looking forward to providing a forum for the performance of this increasingly popular art form. As the University continues to develop its Fine Arts program, performances and competitions like the Fiesta de Mariachi will be commonplace at our new Fine and Performing Arts Center," Dr. Brown explained.

For additional information on Fiesta de Mariachi, contact the University's Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326.2180.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu