June 2, 2024
Greg Cavazos has been appointed as a new assistant professor of practice and director of the Mariachi Paredes at the Butler School of Music, effective fall 2024. With 19 years of experience as both an educator and performer in Texas, Cavazos brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.
Throughout his career, Cavazos has held key positions as a mariachi director at Eagle Pass High School, Cavazos Middle School, and Lubbock High School. His leadership was pivotal in developing and enhancing mariachi programs.
Cavazos served as a mariachi director for Mariachi Javelina at Texas A&M University-Kingsville and provided masterclasses at Texas Tech University. He also worked as the Activities Director and lead trumpet instructor at the Texas Tech University Mariachi Camp.
In addition to his mariachi expertise, Cavazos has served as an assistant band director and assistant orchestra director. He is an active member of the Texas Music Adjudicators Association, evaluating mariachi ensembles statewide, and has conducted workshops for All-Region Mariachi ensembles.
As a performer, Cavazos has collaborated with renowned artists like George Strait, Beatriz Montes, and Jimmy Gonzales. His versatility shines through his performances with over 40 mariachi ensembles.
Cavazos's accolades include the 2022 Hermanos Familia “Adelante Award” and being an honorary inductee to the Sigma Delta Pi Sociedad Nacional Honoraria Hispánica in 2015. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and a Master of Music in Musicology with an emphasis on mariachi music from Texas Tech University.