Carver Mariachi Student Earns Spot in Prestigious Region Ensemble; Mariachi Acero to Compete at UIL Area Contest

Carver High School senior Anamaria López has been selected to perform with the Philharmonic Region Mariachi Ensemble, earning one of the top competitive spots among student musicians across the Houston area.

Anamaria, a member of Carver’s Mariachi Acero program, auditioned on Oct. 18, 2025, alongside students from multiple Houston-area school districts for placement in the Houston Mariachi Philharmonic and Symphonic ensembles. The auditions are widely considered among the most competitive mariachi contests in the area because students from all regional programs vie for limited positions.

The 12th grader placed 14th overall among 37 violin students who auditioned. Her selection earns her a position in the Philharmonic ensemble and the opportunity to represent Aldine ISD, Region 33, and the Carver Mariachi program.

“Anamaria has worked incredibly hard and truly earned this accomplishment,” said Carver Mariachi Director Jaime Alanis. “She is dedicated, talented, and represents the very best of our students and our mariachi program. Students from across Houston audition for only a limited number of spots. For Anamaria to place among the top violinists and perform with the Philharmonic ensemble is something we are very proud of at Carver.”

Alanis said the highly competitive audition process makes Anamaria’s accomplishment especially meaningful.

The Region Mariachi concert is scheduled for March 7, 2026, at Klein Collins High School. The performance is free and open to the public.

In addition to Anamaria’s achievement, Carver’s Mariachi Acero will compete in the UIL Area contest on Jan. 24, 2026, in Robstown, a community in Nueces County near Corpus Christi. The group will compete for the opportunity to earn a Sweepstakes rating.

“Mariachi Acero has been working hard and is excited for the opportunity to compete at the UIL Area contest,” Alanis said. “Our students have shown tremendous growth, discipline, and heart. The UIL Area contest is another chance for them to showcase that commitment on a big stage. No matter the outcome, I am proud of the musicians they are becoming.”

Carver High School’s mariachi program continues to build on a strong tradition of performance and competition success as students showcase their musical talent and commitment to the fine arts.