Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15th to October 15th we celebrate the contributions Hispanic Americans have contributed to American culture. Our districts’ dual-language schools and bilingual education programs help to bridge language barriers and promote education equality while local public schools help immerse students in the culture, language, and music of Latin America!
Here’s some highlighted Central Texas ISDs that celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month in style, with mariachi bands galore!
Resnik Middle School featured talented middle school musicians of Mariachi Alas De Plata (The Silver Wing Mariachi Band) in September 2024. These young artists shared their love for mariachi music, personal connections to the genre, and their challenges as a group.
For Elizabeth, a 7th grader in her 2nd year as a violinist, mariachi music is a way to honor her grandfather. “I wanted to honor my grandpa, who loved mariachi music,” she explained. Elizabeth is especially drawn to the emotions of the lyrics, particularly in the love songs. “For me, it’s the words. Mariachi music has so many love songs, and they’re really amazing.”
Julian, an 8th grader and 3rd-year trumpet player, vividly remembers when his passion for mariachi music began. “When I was 8 or 9 years old, I heard my first mariachi song, Mariachi Loco, and that’s when I fell in love with it,” he says. For Julian, mariachi music is a way to express himself. He admires the traditional trajes (costumes) and is proud to be part of a rich cultural tradition.
Mariachi Alas De Plata faces challenges like any group, particularly at the start of the school year. “Our challenge right now is learning to communicate and play together, which comes with time,” Jeriah shares. With practice and dedication, the group is determined to overcome these obstacles and create beautiful music together. As they continue to learn and grow, the Mariachi Alas De Plata students remain passionate about their music and the mariachi culture that connects them to their families, traditions, and each other.
Harlandale High School mariachi brought the spirit of 16 de Septiembre to life, serenading students at Collier Elementary, Stonewall Flanders Elementary, and Harlandale Middle School. It was a heartwarming celebration of tradition, unity, and the beauty of Mexican music. Thank you to these students for sharing their gift with the next generation!
Meanwhile, over at Lake Travis ISD, mariachis greeted Lake Travis Elementary School students in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month. HHM is a wonderful opportunity to honor the rich Hispanic culture in our communities, for all ages!
Lastly, the moving power of music was present at Copperfield Elementary too, where 4th and 5th graders had their first day of music stations! They were able to practice rhythms, and explore the piano and xylophones for the first time. Being able to appreciate how impressive musicians like other mariachi bands demonstrated starts with teaching about these instruments and musical styles in the first place! It was a fun day of learning and experimenting with sound!
Sources: Southwest, Lake Travis, Judson, Harlandale Facebook
Blog contributions: Tatum Owens, Marketing and Events Assistant
