Abel Acuña is the head mariachi director at Edinburg North High School, where he leads a passionate and resilient program rooted in tradition and heart. His dedication to his students and the mariachi community was recently highlighted in the documentary Going Variety in Mariachi, a powerful story that follows Abel and the challenges his program has faced and overcome. A true advocate for music education and cultural pride, Abel continues to inspire through both his leadership and his story.

Alex Treviño is the head mariachi director of the award-winning Mariachi Oro at McAllen High School, a program known for its excellence and national recognition. A lifelong advocate for mariachi music, Alex is also one of the founding members of the Grammy-nominated Mariachi Los Arrieros del Valle, a group that helped define the modern sound of professional mariachi in South Texas. With decades of experience as both educator and performer, Alex continues to leave a lasting impact on students and audiences alike.

Alex Treviño II is a mariachi educator, performer, and entrepreneur who’s proudly following in his father’s footsteps while forging a path of his own. Based in Riverside, California, Alex is a dedicated mariachi educator and former member of the Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos de Jesús “Chuy” Guzmán. He is also the founder of Treviño Music Academy, where he offers virtual lessons to students around the world, continuing to share his passion for mariachi far beyond the classroom.

Andres Vela is a world-class double bassist from Edinburg, Texas, whose journey from the Rio Grande Valley to international stages is nothing short of inspiring. In 2022, he was awarded the prestigious Susan W. and Stephen D. Paine BOS Resident Fellowship, a year-long training and mentorship program with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Today, he serves as the assistant principal bass of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic, performing with some of the finest musicians in Europe. 

Avigái Gonzalez is a dedicated mariachi educator and advocate for music education from Brownsville, Texas. She currently serves as the Music Program Administrator at Texas Southmost College, where she helps shape the next generation of musicians through innovative programming and leadership. Avigái is also the assistant manager for the renowned Mariachi Margaritas and co-founder of the San Benito Music Academy, a community-driven space for music learning and empowerment. 

Clyde Guerra is the head mariachi director at Edinburg High School, where he brings energy, dedication, and a deep love for tradition to the classroom and stage. With a focus on musical excellence and cultural pride, Clyde continues to build a strong program that inspires students and uplifts the mariachi community in the Rio Grande Valley. 

Corine Maldonado is the founder of Starr Music Academy in Rio Grande City, where she is building a legacy of music education and opportunity in her hometown. A former orchestra director, Corine took a leap of faith to open her own academy — creating a space where students of all ages can discover their love for music and grow their skills in a supportive environment. Her work continues to enrich the cultural fabric of Starr County.

Dr. Dahlia Guerra is a pioneering educator, musician, and cultural advocate whose contributions to the arts have shaped the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. As a founding dean of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a lifelong promoter of Latin American and mariachi music, Dr. Guerra has dedicated her career to preserving heritage while inspiring the next generation of artists. Her vision and leadership continue to elevate the cultural landscape of South Texas. 

Eloy Garza is the head mariachi director of the award-winning Mariachi Santander at Roma High School, one of the most recognized and respected high school mariachi programs in the nation. Under his leadership, the ensemble has consistently set a high standard for musical excellence, cultural pride, and student achievement. Eloy’s dedication to his students and the art of mariachi has helped shape a legacy that continues to shine on stages across Texas and beyond.

Israel Cantu is the assistant orchestra director at Edinburg High School and an accomplished cellist with a deep love for both teaching and performing. He is a member of the Violconsort String Quartet and performs regularly with the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Beyond the stage, Israel shares his passion for music through private instruction at the Bosky School of Music, where he helps shape the next generation of young string players.

 is the head mariachi director at Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy, where he leads a nationally recognized program known for its excellence and innovation. In addition to his work as an educator, Josué is an accomplished arranger and composer whose works are performed by student and professional groups across the country. With a unique blend of artistry and vision, he continues to push the boundaries of mariachi education and performance. 

Karina Vela is the head orchestra and mariachi director at San Benito High School, where she leads with passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to her students and community. As the founder of the all-female ensemble Mariachi Margaritas and co-founder of the San Benito Music Academy, Karina has created platforms that celebrate tradition, empower young musicians, and elevate women in mariachi. Her work continues to inspire both in and out of the classroom. 

Marcos Zarate is the head mariachi director at Rio Grande City High School, where he leads one of the most respected student mariachi programs in South Texas. Outside the classroom, he serves as the musical director for the Grammy-nominated Mariachi Los Arrieros del Valle, bringing his deep passion and expertise to the professional stage. With a career rooted in tradition and excellence, Marcos continues to shape the future of mariachi while honoring its rich cultural legacy.

Mayra Garcia-Adame is the head mariachi director at Palmview High School, where she leads with passion, precision, and a deep commitment to cultural tradition. Beyond the classroom, she is the visionary founder of Mariachi Las Mariposas — an award-winning all-female mariachi ensemble that continues to break barriers and inspire audiences across Texas. Through her leadership, both in education and performance, Mayra is empowering the next generation of musicians while elevating the role of women in mariachi. 

Nathan Fernández is a talented mariachi musician, composer, arranger, and producer from the Rio Grande Valley, currently performing with the world-renowned Mariachi Sol de Mexico de José Hernández. A proud Valley native, Nathen has taken his roots to the national stage, showcasing his artistry with one of the most iconic ensembles in mariachi. Beyond performing, he continues to make his mark behind the scenes as a creative force in the studio.

Patricio Molina is a proud Valley native whose musical journey has taken him from local stages to performing with one of the most iconic mariachi ensembles in the world — Mariachi Sol de Mexico de José Hernández. With a deep love for tradition and a powerful stage presence, Patricio represents the Rio Grande Valley on an international level, bringing our region’s talent and heart to audiences everywhere.