Festival de Mariachi: CFBISD Hosts First-Ever Mariachi Festival

Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD celebrated the rich tradition of mariachi music with its first-ever "Festival de Mariachi" (Mariachi Festival) on April 25 at DeWitt Perry Middle School.

The festive event featured performances by five CFBISD mariachi groups from Creekview High School, Field Middle School, Perry Middle School, Polk Middle School and Smith High School. Parents, family and community members packed the auditorium to cheer on the performers. 

"We are incredibly proud of our students and their teachers for their dedication to this beautiful art form," said Mark Rohwer, CFBISD Director of Fine Arts. "The students are learning a lot and having a blast."

The mariachi programs in CFBISD first began as after-school clubs focused on a single performance. However, the enthusiastic response from audiences and a growing appreciation for the cultural significance of mariachi music – both within the district and across the state – prompted the district to expand its support. CFBISD now boasts five mariachi ensembles, with plans to add more in the coming years. These groups perform not only at school concerts but also at community events, celebrations and National Hispanic Heritage Month festivities.

Funding for mariachi instruments has come from the district's Fine Arts office. Additionally, some ensembles have received financial backing from their campus booster clubs, donations from the community and grants from the CFB Educational Foundation.

"We are incredibly grateful to all these groups for their advocacy and support," Rohwer said. "The fact that our students rehearse outside of school hours speaks volumes about their commitment to mariachi music and the fine arts program."

The commitment extends to the CFBISD Fine Arts faculty, many of whom have embraced the challenge of learning to teach and lead in this new art form for many students.

"Our students are incredibly enthusiastic and dedicated," Rohwer said. "We look forward to continuing to provide them with the support they need to excel. To anyone who hasn't experienced the joy of a mariachi performance by our student ensembles, I urge you to come to the next concert. You won't be disappointed."

CFBISD Student Mariachi Ensembles