Aggieland Mariachi
Aggieland Mariachi was founded in the fall of 2002 by students of Texas A&M University. The organization has since had hundreds of students over the years and performs at events both inside and outside of the Bryan/College Station area.
Aggieland Mariachi, also known as Mariachi Anillos de Oro (“Rings of Gold”), is the premier student mariachi group at Texas A&M University. Founded by students in 2002, the organization is dedicated to serving the community and enriching the environment by promoting the Hispanic heritage of traditional mariachi music. Clad in their distinct maroon traje de charro (charro suits) that feature the Texas A&M emblem, they are easily recognizable as the “maroon mariachi.” The group strives to meld Mexican folk music with Aggie culture, with their name “Anillos de Oro” being a nod to the iconic Aggie Ring tradition.
The group performs at a variety of events, ranging from campus celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month and the annual Latinx Graduation Ceremony to high-profile public events such as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Their repertoire includes traditional Mexican songs like “El Rey,” but they also perform a unique mariachi version of the beloved “Aggie War Hymn.” Aggieland Mariachi welcomes musicians of all skill levels, focusing on providing an opportunity for members to express their heritage and for the wider community to experience the beauty and complexity of mariachi music.
Aggieland Mariachi performs an Aggie War Hymn unlike any other.
Rehearsals
Aggieland Mariachi (MUSC 283/503, Mariachi) is open to all currently enrolled Texas A&M students by audition. The group rehearses on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 3:55-5:10 p.m. and is a one-hour credit course.
Audition Information
Membership in Aggieland Mariachi is based on a live audition. If you have questions regarding auditioning for Aggieland Mariachi, you may contact Dr. Van Zandt. No prior experience in mariachi is required. However, you must demonstrate strong musicianship and technical competence on an instrument appropriate to the genre.
Who Can Audition
Aggieland Mariachi is open to all currently enrolled Texas A&M students by audition.
Course Registration Requirement
Students must be enrolled in the course to participate in Aggieland Mariachi – MUSC 283/503 (T–Th, 3:55–5:10 PM). There are no exceptions. The course is graded based on attendance. Because of this, strict attendance is required at all rehearsals and performances.
Course Objectives
Perform a variety of mariachi repertoire representing different styles (sones, rancheras, huapangos, boleros, polkas, etc.), time periods, and regional traditions of Mexico to connect student musicians with the art of mariachi performance and its role in Mexican and Mexican-American culture, enhancing their overall academic and cultural experience at Texas A&M.
Increase knowledge and understanding of mariachi-specific theory and practice, including harmonic structures, rhythmic patterns, melodic ornamentation, and stylistic conventions, to strengthen performance ability, artistic depth, and technical comprehension of the mariachi tradition while elevating the ensemble’s impact.
Develop the ability to sight-read and aurally internalize mariachi music more effectively, with emphasis on memorization, rhythmic accuracy, improvisatory elements (such as gritos and instrumental embellishments), and ensemble cohesion.
Explore the historical and cultural background of mariachi composers and traditions, recognizing the genre’s evolution from rural folk roots to its global presence, and understanding its relevance to contemporary Mexican, Latin American, and American musical culture.
Prior Experience in Mariachi
No prior experience in mariachi is required. However, you must demonstrate strong musicianship and technical competence on an instrument appropriate to the genre.
Instruments Accepted
- Trumpet
- Violin
- Flute
- Guitar
- Vihuela
- Guitarrón
- Voice
If you play an adjacent instrument and think it fits mariachi, contact Dr. Van Zandt to discuss.
Audition Requirements
Auditions include two parts:
1. Prepared selection (your choice)
- Prepare one piece that shows your highest current skill level.
- Any style is acceptable, but mariachi repertoire is encouraged when possible.
- You may perform with or without accompaniment (backing track is fine).
2. Sight reading
- You will be given a short excerpt to briefly study and prepare then perform.
- The goal is to evaluate rhythmic accuracy, tone, intonation, musicality and your ability to learn quickly.
What to bring
- Your instrument and all accessories
- A copy of your music (and accompaniment device if needed)
- For voice: a backing track or accompanist is welcome but not required
Scheduling Your Audition
Auditions are typically scheduled at a mutually agreeable time or during the first week of class each semester. Fill out the Aggieland Mariachi Interest Form and Dr. Van Zandt will reach out to you regarding scheduling your audition.
Contact Dr. Van Zandt directly if you have any questions about the course.
Please include:
- Your name and UIN
- Instrument or voice part
- Describe your level of musical experience