The University of Texas Mariachi, known as the The Mariachi Paredes de Tejastitlán, was founded in 1977. It was named in honor of Dr. Américo Paredes (1916-99), a seminal figure in the history of border studies, Mexican American studies and the post-modern movement in anthropology. The mariachi was created by a group of graduate students in Dr. Paredes’ History of Folklore survey class in the Folklore Department with Dr. Paredes as sponsor and inspiration. Early performers and/or directors of the group included Dan Dickey, Bill Gradante, Manuel Peña, and John Schechter. The mariachi eventually came under the auspices of the Music Department and was supervised by Dr. Gerard Behague (1937-2005) for many years.
There are two ensembles that students can join. The Mariachi Laboratory Ensemble is a preparatory course for those who are newer to playing or singing mariachi. The Mariachi Ensemble is a more advanced ensemble.
INSTRUMENTATION
Everyone is expected to sing and play an instrument:
violin, trumpet, harp, guitarrón, vihuela, and guitar
Booking Requests
If you are interested in booking the Mariachi Ensemble to play for an event, please contact: mariachi.paredes@utexas.edu
Join
Mariachi Laboratory Ensemble is open to all University of Texas students, regardless of major.
Courses
Mariachi Laboratory Ensemble
UNDERGRADUATE ENS 106L
GRADUATE ENS 186L / 096L
T-Th, 5:00–6:30p
MRH 2.118
Mariachi Ensemble
UNDERGRADUATE ENS 106M
GRADUATE ENS 186M / 096M
T-Th, 7:00–9:00p
MRH 2.106
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Upcoming Performances
