MARIACHI
The Moores School of Music’s Mariachi Program welcomes all UH students to explore the rhythms and sounds of mariachi music. Featuring both junior varsity and premier ensembles, the program also hosts a popular two-week Mariachi Summer Camp, offering skill development in performance, vocals, and ballet folklórico.
The vibrant sounds of mariachi resonate throughout the University of Houston thanks to the Moores School of Music’s dedicated Mariachi Program, directed by Professor of Practice Jose Longoria. Open to all UH students regardless of their major, the program features both the junior varsity ensemble, Mariachi Nuevo Houston, and the premier ensemble, Mariachi Pumas. Both ensembles offer outstanding opportunities to learn and explore the rhythms, unique instrumentation, and performance practices that define this traditional Mexican musical style. Students may register either for college credit or through the UH Community Arts Academy.
Beyond its academic offerings, the Mariachi Program hosts MSM’s two-week Mariachi Summer Camp, which attracts aspiring mariachi students from across the Houston area and beyond. This popular camp provides participants the opportunity to improve their mariachi performance skills, enhance their vocal techniques, and learn the art of ballet folklórico.
Mariachi Nuevo Houston welcomes musicians from both the university and the wider Houston community. While no audition is required for entry, participants should have a basic understanding of music reading and proficiency on a mariachi instrument.
Mariachi Pumas performs regularly at the University of Houston and throughout the greater Houston area. The ensemble also travels domestically and internationally, showcasing their talents and conducting mariachi workshops for young enthusiasts at various festivals. UH students who are members of this ensemble may apply for a $1,000 scholarship each semester to support their dedication to this cultural art form. Membership in this group is open to all UH students and interested community members by audition.
You can support The UH Mariachi Pumas by engaging them to perform at your event. Enliven your wedding, birthday party, reception, Quinceanera, or business function with the Pumas' incomparable musicianship and showmanship. To learn about possibly booking the Pumas, fill out the form below.
Booking Inquiry FormJose Longoria, Director of Mariachi Studies