Valley mariachi students awarded at national competition

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Mariachi Extravaganza, the largest mariachi music festival in the United States, announced the winners of this year's competition.

The event welcomed students from across the country to showcase their mariachi talents in San Antonio for its 30th annual run.

Mariachi groups and soloists took the stage to perform in front of judges from Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán.

Eight students from the Rio Grande Valley were recognized in the national competition in the solo vocal competition from elementary, middle school, high school and college.

Additionally five schools from the Valley were also recognized in the group competition category.

"The quality of musicianship and caliber of vocal talent were elevated to new heights this year, illustrating the continuous growth and popularity of school mariachi programs at all levels," said Cynthia Muñoz, Mariachi Extravaganza founder and producer.

The Grand Champion Vocal Winner went to Lorraine Garza of Roma High School.

Garza was awarded more than $15,000 in scholarships, cash and travel opportunities. She also had the opportunity to open for Mariachi Vargas at the competition's grand finale concert.

Other competition highlights were the winners of the High School Group Competition which resulted in a first-place tie between Rio Grande City High School and Grulla High School.

"It was great to see fellow students, families and community members out in full force cheering on the competitors with enthusiasm that matched a sporting event," Muñoz continued.