Mariachi Acero From Aldine ISD Earns Distinguished Performance Award at UIL State Festival

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Aldine ISD’s Mariachi Acero may be a young program — it was formed in the fall of 2019 — but it has grown stronger each year.

Spring 2024 ended on a high note for Mariachi Acero, which wrapped up a successful competitive season. The group earned a Sweepstakes award at the Texas UIL Region Mariachi Contest, marking the first time the mariachi ensemble advanced to the state-level competition. At the State UIL Contest in late February, Mariachi Acero received a second-division rating and seven outstanding medals for best violin section. The group also performed at the Mariachi Region Concert in March.

Last school year, Mariachi Acero had two student musicians selected to perform at the fifth annual Mariachi Festival in August at the Wortham Center. In October, three students advanced to the state round after auditions in the Region 33 process.

UIL State Mariachi Festival

Mariachi Acero musicians and vocalists again demonstrated their talent at the UIL State Mariachi Festival on Feb. 21, 2025, in Seguin. The group earned a Distinguished Performance Award and all eight violinists earned individual gold medals.

The group is comprised of Jesús Aguilar, Amy Alizondo, Mariana Arcovendas, Luis Campirano, , Eduardo Carreón, Israel Castrejón, Julio Delgado, Jacob Díaz, Carlos Forero, Isabel García, Edgar Hernández, Anamaria López, Israel Mena, Marianne Olvera, and Domenic Velado.

Competing in the Texas Association of Mariachi Educators Contest

Mariachi Acero also qualified this year to compete in the Texas Association of Mariachi Educators (TAME) Contest on Apr. 12, 2025, in Somerset, TX. All the best mariachi high school groups will showcase their exceptional talent.

Performing at Go Tejano Committee’s Mariachi Invitational at the RodeoHouston®

Mariachi Acero will also participate this year in the “Go Tejano Commitee’s Mariachi Invitational” at the Houston Rodeo on Mar. 15 and Mar. 16, 2025.

Jaime Alanis, director of Carver High School’s Mariachi Acero, praised the students’ commitment and perseverance.

“The UIL mariachi competition is among the most challenging in Texas. Advancing at this level speaks to our students’ dedication, musicianship, and teamwork,” Alanis said. “They continue to set the bar higher, proving they belong among the best in the state. I’m beyond proud of their perseverance and passion for mariachi music.”