Mariachi Program Offerings

Mariachi/Instrumental Music

The mariachi classes taught by professional mariachi musicians focus on the traditional mariachi instruments and explore the different regional music from Mexico that are commonly played by Mariachis. Students learn from experienced and professional Mariachi musicians who not only instruct the students; but also share their talent, enthusiasm, and dedication to the preservation and enjoyment of traditional cultural music. This culturally relevant Mariachi music education serves as the vehicle to teach our students about teamwork, leadership, discipline, goal setting and self-esteem.

(Meets Weekly: 45 minutes. Four sessions.)

Mariachi/Voice

Students learn from experienced and professional Mariachi vocalists. The goal of the vocal session is to provide students a fundamental skill of vocalizing and interpreting the mariachi music genre in a solo and choral performance. Students also learn to read music as well as sight reading, and develop the music skills to view both melody and lyrics.

(Meets Weekly: 45 minutes. Four sessions.)

Ballet Folklorico

Baile folklórico, literally "folkloric dance" in Spanish, also known as ballet folklórico, is a collective term for traditional Mexican dances that emphasize local folk culture with ballet characteristics - pointed toes, exaggerated movements, highly choreographed.

(Meets weekly: Two 1-hour sessions. Ages 5-18. Taught by a dance maestro and volunteers.)

Dinner Program

A hot meal is served to over 60 students and their families on a weekly basis.

(Served weekly in partnership with Open Heart Kitchen volunteers. All students and parents are welcome.)

Enrichment Program

In order to further bridge the Enrichment Gap, the PUSD Mariachi Program provides additional enrichment opportunities. The enrichment classes offered during the 2023-24 school year are below:

Introduction to Coding: Students are introduced to SCRATCH and other coding languages from Amador Valley High School AP Computer Science students.

African Drumming: Students learn the art of African drumming and dance with instructors from the Cheza Nami Foundation, Inc.

Academic Support: A bilingual teacher and high school student tutors are available to assist students with homework.  Students identified as needing additional academic support will either receive personalized support during their Mariachi class or before/after their class.

(Meets weekly 5:30-8:30 p.m.)