Young Musicians Sizzle at Mariachi Festival
More than 1,000 people crowded into the San Fernando High School auditorium Sunday for the fifth La Voz del Mariachi festival.
Youth mariachi troupes entertained a receptive crowd that cheered whenever old, familiar standards were played--or whenever young, familiar faces were on stage.
Many spectators carried camcorders or cameras to catch their children and grandchildren, brothers and sisters performing.
“I really feel good when I’m up there. I feel confident,” said Mirna Zamudio, 14, a Sylmar High School violinist and singer for Mariachi Aguila Azteca, one of more than a dozen groups that performed.
“We are family here,” said Maria Reza, a district administrator and former San Fernando High principal.
A moment of silence was observed for Christina Ibarra-Montoya, a former participant in La Voz del Mariachi, who died a week ago, two days after her wedding.
“I lost a daughter in a way, and many of the young people here a sister,” said Rudy Vasquez, music director at San Fernando Middle School.
Performers ranged from elementary school to college age.
Proceeds, to be divided among the groups, will be used to purchase instruments, attend conferences and pay for music lessons.
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