Arts & Culture
Mariachi in May
Professor Russell Rodriguez has helped mariachi music flourish on campus
Oscar Ortega Ornelas; image courtesy of the artist
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In the number of upcoming music events one that should not be overlooked is the upcoming mariachi performance. La Alegría Del Mariachi on May 18 combines professional and student performers for a fascinating look at a traditional art form.
Led by Russell C. Rodríguez, an assistant professor of music, mariachi music has thrived on campus since he arrived in 2017. In 2018 Rodríguez started teaching a class in mariachi, and a collection of his students started the mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Eterno de UCSC. The upcoming performance features current music students, the mariachi ensemble as well as members of Los Mejicas de UCSC, an on-campus Mexican folkloric dance group.
Students will be joined by master mariachi musician, Oscar Ortega Ornelas. Originally from Guadalajara, Ornelas has traveled extensively to play his music. Most recently, he finished a stint playing with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán whose slogan “El mejor mariachi del mundo” translates to “The best mariachi in the world.” Rodríguez credits the performer with being an outstanding violinist and incredible vocalist.
The event itself, La Alegría Del Mariachi, translates to “The joy of Mariachi.” The performance will certainly fill audiences with joy, community, and a new appreciation for music. This celebration of Mexican music embodies the diversity on campus and the excellence in music education.
“UCSC is an Hispanic serving institution,” says Rodríguez, “where we have a population that’s close to 30 percent, so with these performances, these students have somewhere to share and celebrate their culture and their cultural expressions.”
A lot of mariachi centers on accompaniment and being able to play songs with little preparation, although for this performance there were plenty of rehearsals. Rodríguez describes the ability to accompany, especially with little notice, as “one of the foundational skill sets in mariachi.” It also demonstrates the excellence in music performance over all.
La Alegría Del Mariachi Is open to the public with tickets available on Eventbrite. This incredible performance is based on excellence, community and having a great time listening to music.
Sunday, May 18, 2025 3:00 PM
Music Center Recital Hall
UC Santa Cruz
400 McHenry Road
Santa Cruz, California 95064
Tickets available on Eventbrite
$0 – $12
Free for undergrad students – ticket required.