Workshops

The annual five day conference begins with workshops in Mariachi Music, Voice and Folkloric Dance. Classes are instructed under the direction of Mariachi Cobre in the five instruments of Mariachi Music, Guitar, Guitarron, Vihuela, Violin and Trumpet, at the skill level of the student. Students in Folkloric Dance classes from beginning dance to the Masters level, are instructed under the artistic direction of Ballet Folklorico Masters.

Specialty Workshops allow students to study special interest topics. Stage Performance Skills focus on the basics of stage presence, appearance, and techniques for individuals and group performance. Ensemble Techniques for groups encourages cohesive synchronized playing. Other learning experiences include a Luthier Workshop, featuring instrument repair and maintenance. The colorful history of Mariachi Music and Folkloric Dance is interwoven throughout the workshop sessions.

Class Description and Availability

Stage Performance Workshop
Stage Performance Skills offers an interactive session focusing on the basics of stage presence and deportment, appearance, and techniques use to augment over all stage presentation. Professional New York stage performer and choreographer Isaac Quiroga will offer this valuable interactive and fun-filled session on a limited basis to groups and solo vocalists who have submitted auditions and been selected for the Student Showcase performance. For information on submitting auditions for this year’s Student Showcase see Student Showcase Auditions on the main page of this web site.

Music Ensemble Techniques
This specialty workshop will focus on the importance of musical ensemble techniques in group performance. Steve Carrillo, member of Mariachi Cobre will engage students of mariachi groups in a close look at the important principles of cohesive synchronized musical performance. For access to this one of a kind session see Group Registration on the conference main page. This session will be limited and offered to all groups on a first come, first serve basis.

Pimentel Luthier Workshop
This hands-on session will feature world renowned Pimentel Family, makers of Pimentel guitars. Students will view and experience the many intricate steps in assembling a guitar. Students will gain a general knowledge and appreciation for instruments, and their maintenance. Attendance for this session will be scheduled by conference administration.

Mariachi History
Coming soon

Dance History
Coming soon

Harp Class
New to the Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference this year will be the implementation of a harp class. See both Individual Registration and Group Registration on main page to register.

 

STAGE PERFORMANCES

Workshop participants enjoy performance opportunities in both impromptu and formal settings where they learn from their peers as well as their instructors. Students audition for performance at the Student Showcase Concert. A highlight of the workshops is the students' on-stage performance at the Spectacular Concert with world-renowned Mariachi Cobre and international artists.

 

Dance Workshop Region of Study: Coming soon.

Dance Workshops

Folkloric Dance Workshops
Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference proudly returns to its roots with “Sones Jaliscienses.”  This year marks the return of internationally renowned  Maestro Rafael Zamarripa to the dance workshops.  The classes will feature “Sones”  from the state of Jalisco, the cornerstone of mariachi music. Students will have an opportunity to develop their coordination and movement fluidity with Maestro Zamarripa’s footwork technique.  This year also marks the return of a Master’s Class that will feature a Dance Production Class. The Master’s Class will be open to group directors, assistant directors, teachers, choreographers or instructors. Sign up for Master's Class here.

CHECK BACK SOON FOR MORE INFORMATION.

 

DANCE Videos

Rafael Zamarripa and Tecnica RAZA

 

Ballet Folklorico Paso del Norte